A few days back, there was a picture of a coconut tree laden with almost 2000 coconuts, in a local newspaper. Coconuts were hanging down very impressively, and it certainly left many a mouths agape... coconuts are verymuch considered a symbol of wealth and status, even though the farmers find it tough to get a fair price for their produce.
I think the one problem which has affected the coconut industry is the notion that both the kernel and the oil are bad for the heart. Most keralites, who used to swear by coconut oil in the past, have switched over to more heart-healthy sunflower oil and refined vegetable oils. Doctors too play a major role in this choice.
But looks as if the humble coconut has atlast proved it's stance! It seems all these bad publicity about it's negative effects have no ground, and scientists recently unearthed the fact that Coconut oil, infact may help to reduce harmful cholestrol and the like. It is very safe to consume. Newspapers like the Mathrubhoome brought it out in their front page itself! Let's hope that this bit of information gives a new lease of life to this evergreen nut. After all, What would kerala be without it's 'kera'???
Coconut tree climbers are in great demand in the state. Their numbers are fast dwindling, with the younger generation showing little interest in this profession. Technology has caught up with them too, and it seems there is a coconut climbing machine which can be easily handled even by enterprising ladies!
speaking of technology, most climbers these days have their own mobile phones, and can be contacted easily. It is another fact that you may be forced to cool your heels, till they find a convenient date to make their appearance. I know of a person who took leave from his office, in order to wait for the coconut climber, who had promised to come on a specific day... It may be amusing, but if coconuts are not plucked at the right time, they may just dry up and fall, and if some unlucky person or a vehicle happens to be below it, then the consequences may not be that funny!
It acutally happened to me once.. As i was driving past a house, i was shocked to hear something hit the side of the car and roll off. A passerby who had witnessed the incident confirmed the fact that it was actually a coconut that had chosen to fall at that time, that hit my car. Ofcourse, i had to shell out a handsome sum to get the dent repaired...I was just thankful that it didn't hit the windshield.. otherwise, it would have been a different scene!
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