Mashithandu
Mashithandu or Vellathandu (literal meaning water stem) is a small plant which arouses lot of nostalgia among Malayalees.
This small plant's stem is full of water. In Malabar we call it Vellathandu ( which is more appropriate I think) but in southern kerala they call Mashi thandu ( which means ink stem - Mashi means ink) . But in literature of Kerala Mashithandu is popularly used.
In olden days when slate was used in schools this was used to rub out the writing. Young boys and girls used to exchange the mashithandu and become friends ! The stem cut into small pieces is saved in small pencil boxes.
There is yet another use - a small stem piece is taken and the water is emptied from half portion of the stem and air is blown into it. That portion then expands like balloon. Then that balloon is hit on the forehead and explodes with a sound. Children enjoy it. !
Mashithandu grows anywhere where water is abundant. As it is a weed plant I find it a nuisance in my lawn. But every time I pluck one I smile and think of my childhood. How amazing ! this small plant can make your heart soft and weak and can bring tears into your eyes!
Through the tears I see a small hand with bangles that lends me her mashithandu!.
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