Lights. Camera. RCNM.

Somewhere amidst the gleeful pyrotechnics and the vibrant revelries, Mother Nature stands neglected and beat. Even as our leaders are signing conventions to save the planet, we're indulging in festivities that are constantly scarring our environment. So what can we do about it? Quite a lot, actually. One attractive solution is to encourage and participate in festivals that are aimed at appreciating and caring for nature. One such festival that has gained global recognition is the Hanami festival of Japan. Every spring, parks across the island nation transform as the Cherry Blossom (Sakura) trees begin to bloom with their iconic pink flowers. Locals and tourists alike throng to Sakura-viewing hot spots in April to imbibe the enchanting atmosphere propagated by the trees in full bloom. The parks are packed with picnic mats as entire communities get together for 'Hanami parties'. The blossoms last for only a couple of weeks so locals often spend entire day...

“Snap!” It was the only sound heard on that deserted road as I stepped on the twig fallen on the road. Paying no attention to it, I began running again. Did I mention that I was running late for work at 10 PM in the night? Only my erratic and unpredictable boss could keep a meeting at a time like that. And as usual, I missed the bus so I had no option but to walk. Finally I stopped outside the entrance of a graveyard. I don’t believe in ghosts or supernatural creatures, but the thought of running through a graveyard at night still made me hesitant. I knew I had no choice as it was the only shortcut to my workplace. I took a deep breath and entered the graveyard. The place’s eeriness was increased by the presence of branches of the trees rising like dying arms, with the full moon covered by a dark cloud like shroud. The signs of Christ seemed almost alive and there was no sound heard except heavy breathing. Just when I thought it couldn’t get scarier, “i...