I visited the village of Kone in Nashik district yesterday where we are doing conservation and ecological restoration. I had a magical experience of witnessing fireflies. Here is a small poem expressing my emotions.
The Magic of Fireflies: A Call to Conserve
There’s a quiet, almost sacred moment when fireflies begin to glow —
a flickering dance of light that silences the noise of the world.
In their gentle luminescence lies a truth we often forget:
that the most beautiful things in nature are also the most fragile.
To witness fireflies is to glimpse an ancient rhythm of life,
one that depends on undisturbed forests, clean air, and native trees
like Terminalia tomentosa — their preferred haven.
But their glow is fading, dimmed by disappearing habitats
and fragmented ecosystems.
Yet, in their fleeting brilliance, a stronger resolve ignites.
We plant not just trees, but lifelines.
Each sapling becomes a promise —
to restore what we’ve lost and protect what remains.
This is more than reforestation.
It’s re-enchantment.
It’s remembering that to conserve is to care,
and to restore is to believe
that a future where fireflies still dance is one worth building.
CLN has previously published two posts on fireflies by Dr. Bishan Monnappa – Starlit Earth, and Arcadian Rhythms…. And Parked Enroute.
Very touching. This reminded me of the magical spectacle of fireflies twinkling in the darkness. Those memories often symbolises childhood innocence, Freedom, connection with nature. The thrill of chasing fireflies on light pre-monsoon shower nights is indeed a classic childhood adventure that many people cherish.
The gentle glow of the fireflies, the thrill of the chase and the excitement of allowing one to gently sit on your palm – is a magical experience that can create lifelong memories.
Beautifully written by Sarayu. This is from the heart and obviously one can live her passion through this. God bless! May her tribe increase!