I was totally unaware that it was an edible fruit with a slightly tangy taste that kids love. I would have discovered that, had I been around a blooming Kadam tree when I was a kid. I feasted on Gulmohar petals instead.

Indians get Jamun as a summer treat. Rs. 5 or 10 for a cone full of Jamun, spiced with salt, is great! Phalsa is another special fruit that shares the season with Jamun. Also mangoes! It is said, one may eat a tummy full of mangoes and easily

I was first fascinated by these flowers at Bithoor, Kanpur. It was offered at Brahm Khoonti shrine. This was the first kachnar bloom that I saw at close quarters, fragrant, and butterfly like…