The century-old banyan tree that stood tall at St. Nicholas School and College in Nagri Union, Kaliganj Upazila of Gazipur, was uprooted on Friday night (May 16) by a powerful Kalbaishakhi storm — marking the end of an era for generations of students who grew up under its shade.
For nearly 100 years, the grand tree stood as more than just a part of the school campus — it was a silent witness to childhood friendships, schoolyard laughter, quiet reading sessions, and vibrant celebrations. From morning classes to afternoon games, students found comfort, joy, and inspiration beneath its leafy embrace.
Locals confirmed that the massive banyan tree crashed to the ground during the fierce storm, leaving students, teachers, and alumni in deep mourning. “It feels like we’ve lost a part of our childhood,” said Shaheen Morol, a former student, in an emotional Facebook post.
Another alumnus, Prince T. Costa, shared: “Our beloved banyan tree was more than a tree — it was our companion, a shelter, a symbol of our childhood. It will always live in our hearts.”
Zeenat Rahman, a guest teacher at the school, expressed: “That banyan tree wasn’t just part of the school’s landscape — it was a living lesson in patience and resilience. Its fall feels like the closing of a beloved chapter.”
Brother Lyton Francis Ribeiro, Principal of St. Nicholas School, reflected on the emotional loss, saying, “This banyan tree has been part of our school’s foundation. As a former student myself, I remember playing and dreaming beneath its branches. To honor its legacy, I will plant a new banyan tree beside it — a symbol of remembrance and hope for future generations.”
Though the tree has fallen, its roots will forever remain deep in the memories of those it sheltered.
