Born in Africa was the title of the album of Dr Alban in 1996. I used to listen to it a lot. For as long as I can remember, I was interested in Africa. As a little girl, I would listen to the wolves that howled in the mountain behind my house and dream of distant lands. I would hear the sound of drums somewhere and gently tap my feet, mostly in my head.
Though I never had a thing for science, anthropology has always interested me. It was further kindled by Jean M Auel's book 'The Clan of the Cave Bear' (Amazing book!). Then, a few years ago, there was this programme on Nat Geo about Dr Spencer Wells' new theory on evolution called 'Out of Africa' theory. According to him, the entire humankind spread out from one set of people from the heart of Africa. He even traced the path they took around the world and discovered some handful of people who carried DNA traces from those people who set out I think over 200 thousand years ago. The story I remember was all over the papers and I spent many days thinking of it. The Nat Geo Society now has a Genographic Project through which you can contribute your DNA for study and even trace your ancestry to the first human beings. Its a five year project I believe.
I must say, reading Roots has made me interested in Africa once again. Wouldnt it be amazing to trace your ancestry to the start of mankind?
3 comments:
Kind of nice to think everyone on this planet come from the same place. Why are we fighting? We are all family!
So when are you planning a visit to Africa?
my sentiments exactly, san nakji. I can never understand why people go to war. the world is too beautiful for that!
The moment I get enough money to buy myself some time Dinesh! I cant wait!
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