In the lap of nature

Khajaguda: Telangana Tourism Secretary B Venkatesam inaugurated the sixth edition of ‘Hyderabad Rockathon’ here on Sunday.

Jointly organised by the Society to Save Rocks and the Great Hyderabad Adventure Club, the event saw 500 enthusiastic rock lovers, nature enthusiasts and adventure buffs of the city participating in it. There was also increased participants from youngsters and kids alike.

This year’s venue, the rockscapes at Khajjaguda, near Gachibowli provided the perfect ambience for all the rocky escapades – rappelling, ziplining, bouldering, rock climbing, trail biking and the chilled out fun activities that included passing the rock, rock shotput, rock installations and the educative rock quiz.

The Society spreads awareness of the 2,500-million-year-old rocks and has managed to work with the Government to list 25 rock sites in and around the city as Heritage Precincts, one such protected site being Khajaguda home to an ancient temple, mosque and the historic Meher Baba cave.

The morning began with early risers setting off on rock walks to explore the typical Deccan terrain that the Society to Save Rocks has worked tirelessly to conserve for two decades. The Snake show by Friends of Snakes and the Magic show by hearing impaired Artist Ravi Chandra captured the attention of the sporty audience.

Diyanat Ali, Founder and Director, Great Hyderabad Adventure Club said, “It’s these outdoor exposures that help people build a strong interest in outdoors and adventure activities and come forward for environmental protection. It also helps promote development of a strong character, resilience and perseverance, which is reflected in different areas of their personal and professional lives.