A big tamarind tree in south Kolkata is at risk of being cut down. Residents and activists have started a signature campaign to save it. The tree was planted about 70 years ago by Parul Mukherjee, a freedom fighter and revolutionary. She was convicted in 1935 and spent four years in jail for her role in the Titagarh conspiracy case. After Independence, she moved to Vidyasagar Colony in Calcutta, where she died in 1990. The tree is more than just a plant. It is home to many birds and supports rich biodiversity. Filmmaker Debalina Majumder has documented this tree for 12 years and made a documentary called Friends of Jilipibala, which was chosen for the Kolkata International Film Festival. She said, "I have witnessed the amazing biodiversity it supports." Despite petitions to government officials, the tree does not have protected status yet. She added, "We are urging the Kolkata Municipal Corporation once again to save this icon of urban biodiversity." Concerns grew in July 2024, when builders took over Parul Mukherjee’s old house nearby, threatening the tree's safety. Local people held concerts, storytelling, and bird-watching events to protect it. Even though the tree now stands on public land, fears returned after another tree near the area was cut down to replace a lamppost. The signature campaign began on Christmas Day 2025. The petition says, "This tree stands on public road, but the area adjoining is being redeveloped, placing it at risk of being felled. Keeping in mind the immense contribution of revolutionary Parul Mukherjee to the independence of India, and to this colony, and to protect and preserve the biodiversity, we are writing this petition." People want Kolkata Municipal Corporation to officially protect the tree, stop it from being removed or damaged, create a monument to Parul Mukherjee nearby, and install signs explaining the tree's history and importance. The petition notes, "This tree is not merely a botanical specimen — it is a symbol of resilience, shared history, and ecological harmony. Its preservation would reflect Kolkata’s commitment to honouring its past while fostering sustainable urban living." So far, nearly 450 people have signed physically, and 3,200 have signed online to save this living heritage and ecological treasure.