Let's celebrate this natural progression

Across the world, people of all republics and even twee kingdoms will be celebrating - you guessed it - May 6 as World Naked Gardening Day. Or, at least they should be. For those who see this happy day when gardening enthusiasts shed their clothes and embrace nature in all its glory as a remnant of the past, they really don't get it - the ritual, the grace. It's a time-honoured tradition that dates back... actually, we have no idea when it started. But who cares? The important thing is that it's here, and it's time to get down and dirty. Literally.

Some may scoff at the idea of gardening in the buff, but we say they're just afraid to let their fig leaf fall not too far from the tree. After all, what's more natural than working with the earth in your birthday suit? Sure, there are some risks involved - a stray thorn or a clambering insect. But that's just part of the fun, and tradition. Don't worry about what the post-colonial neighbours may think. They'll just be jealous that they and their overdressed maali didn't think of it first. Naked gardening is also a way to connect with nature and promote sustainability. By growing your own fruit-sabzi, you're reducing your carbon footprint. And what can be a more crowning achievement than that? May your soil be fertile, your harvest bountiful, and your sun beating down less cruelly this summer day.