What is a picnic? It's not just about eating tasty food—it’s about enjoying it under the sky, surrounded by nature, and sharing that joy with friends and family. In Pune, a special kind of picnic called "Avalibhojan" has a rich, colorful history. It all happens under the shady avala tree, also known as the Indian gooseberry tree. Long ago, Pune was full of lush orchards owned by noble families like the Mehendales, Khasagiwales, and Rastes. These families celebrated Avalibhojan with grand feasts in their avala groves. In November 1926, something magical happened when female volunteers from the Social Service League of Bombay came to Pune. They took 78 children from working-class families on their very first picnic—to a garden in Kothrud filled with avala trees. The kids enjoyed delicious bundi laddoos, bhakari, and vegetable curry on leaf plates. They sang songs, played games, and laughed under the tree’s cool shade. This picnic was no ordinary meal. It was a peaceful, beautiful celebration shared by people from all walks of life. Traditionally, many Maharashtrian families, especially Brahmins, met beneath avala trees each year to cook and share food. Andhra Pradesh had a similar festival called Karthika Vanabhojanalu. Temples would bring the deity’s idol to the tree, offer grand meals, and celebrate in joy and color. Why is the avala tree so special? It’s tied deeply to Indian legends and spirituality. The "Kartik Mahatmya Purana" tells us to worship this tree. Lord Krishna himself wore a necklace made of avala berries! Its wood was believed to make water pure, and the fruit was prized in pickles and medicines. A famous story says when a demon chased gods from heaven, they hid under the avala tree—making it sacred forever. In other regions, grand feasts and picnics were popular too. The Mughals loved their hunting picnics, and ancient Indian texts speak of royal banquets in gardens. Even Victorian-era writers like Dickens and Jane Austen praised the joy of picnicking outdoors. The Social Service League changed the game by turning Avalibhojan into a community feast for underprivileged children. Founded in 1911 by Narayan Malhar Joshi, the League wanted to improve people's lives by promoting education, health, and good values. They believed children should connect with nature and culture. Every year, volunteers from Mumbai brought kids to enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and a special meal under the avala trees. This picnic became a symbol of joy, learning, and social harmony. From royal gardens to humble city kids, Avalibhojan remains a vibrant celebration of nature, culture, and community. Isn’t it amazing how a simple act of sharing a meal outdoors can carry centuries of stories, spirituality, and smiles? Pune’s picnic tradition reminds us all: food tastes better when enjoyed under the open sky with loved ones around!