Central and East European
Society for Phenomenology

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188868

Eco-exoticism in thorny land

invasion of cheemakaruvel

Rayson K. Alex

pp. 189-202

Abstract

This chapter explores the concept of ecological exoticism in relation to the video documentary Thorny Land: Invasion of Cheemakaruvel. The documentary is an account of the spread of cheemaikaruvel (Prosopis juliflora), a thorny bush found in every type of South Indian landscape, from mountainous to desert. The following discussion aims to establish the inherent conflict between the native and the exotic, from ecological, cultural, and social perspectives, particularly regarding Prosopis's nomenclature in Tamil Nadu. From the introduction of the plant by the British, who named it a "royal plant," to its literal colonisation, destroying surrounding local plant life, this discussion will highlight the damage it has caused to the landscape. It will also undertake an ethical enquiry in order to comprehend the concept of "otherness," from the point of view of Prosopis juliflora.

Publication details

Published in:

K. Alex Rayson (2016) Ecodocumentaries: critical essays. Dordrecht, Springer.

Pages: 189-202

DOI: 10.1057/978-1-137-56224-1_11

Full citation:

Alex Rayson K. (2016) „Eco-exoticism in thorny land: invasion of cheemakaruvel“, In: R. K. alex (ed.), Ecodocumentaries, Dordrecht, Springer, 189–202.