In the heart of Santiniketan, where Rabindranath Tagore once dreamed of learning beneath the trees, a new kind of tree care is thriving. The Brikkho Foundation, led by 29-year-old Somnath Ghosh, has planted over 2,000 trees and built a community of more than 500 guardians dedicated to nurturing them beyond simple plantation events.
- Brikkho Foundation is India’s first ‘Orphanage Home for Trees’
- Over 2,000 trees planted and nurtured with 500+ guardians
- Trees are monitored for three years to ensure survival
What happened
Somnath Ghosh founded the Brikkho Foundation with a vision to create a home for trees that are planted but often neglected soon after. Recognizing that many tree saplings become ‘orphaned’ either by careless cutting or abandonment post-planting ceremonies, he established a system of guardianship to ensure trees receive ongoing care. The foundation focuses on planting native species in Santiniketan’s Sonajhuri forest and nearby lands made available by local farmers and the Forest Department.
By combining community engagement with digital adoption tools, Brikkho invites people to sponsor the planting and nurturing of a tree for a one-time contribution. Since its inception, the foundation has planted over 2,000 trees and gathered more than 500 guardians who monitor and care for these trees through regular soil preparation, fencing repairs, and organic care until the trees are strong enough to flourish independently.
Why it feels good
Brikkho Foundation’s approach resonates because it addresses a common frustration: how often trees are planted but then forgotten. By fostering lasting relationships between people and nature, it transforms tree care from a brief event into an ongoing, meaningful commitment. This guardianship model enhances environmental efforts by ensuring survival rather than just numbers.
The initiative also beautifully ties environmental care to community spirit, a connection deepened during the COVID-19 lockdown period when Ghosh and volunteers supported both nature and local people through feeding strays and delivering aid. This holistic care carries a hopeful message—that nurturing nature also nourishes our collective well-being.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by Brikkho Foundation’s model, adopting a tree online and following its growth can create a unique bond with nature. Watching the Sonajhuri forest flourish as golden blossoms fall offers a daily reminder of collective care and vitality. Following Brikkho’s journey through their updates and audio-visual content reveals the real impact of community-driven conservation.
Keep an eye on similar initiatives that blend technology with grassroots environmental action. Brikkho’s story encourages exploring ways to deepen our connection with the environment—beyond planting trees, to truly caring for and protecting the green around us.