Kallur Balan - Green Man of Kerala
Kallur Balan, affectionately known as the "Green Man" of Kerala, has dedicated over two decades to environmental conservation, transforming vast stretches of barren land into lush greenery. Residing in Mankurissy village, Palakkad district, Balan's journey from a toddy tapper to a celebrated environmentalist is both inspiring and instructive. Early Life and Transformation Born as Arangattil Velu Balakrishnan, Balan's early years were marked by various occupations, including toddy tapping and small-scale business ventures. However, a profound realization led him to abandon these pursuits and channel his energy into environmental conservation. This shift not only redefined his life's purpose but also had a lasting impact on Kerala's ecological landscape. A Mission to Green Kerala Approximately 14 years ago, Balan embarked on an ambitious mission to revitalize two barren hillocks near his home-Ayyar Mala and Chudiyar Mala in Mankara grama panchayat. Initially met...