Traveler's Palm

I always was/am fascinated by this tree - I could see it from a flyover as we passed this quaint Paigah Mosque at Begumpet ( quaint because it is known for its Spanish architecture). A colleague A who goes for his Friday namaz at this mosque took the picture for me.  The base is obscured by other vegetation.  It should look like this otherwise - pic below -



Common name: Traveler's Palm, Traveler's tree



This is not a true palm.  Originated from Madagascar.  The sheaths of stems hold rainwater which can be a source of emergency drinking water supply and hence it's name.  It looks like a palm tree in part and a banana plant.   The young tree would have only branches and only as it grows does the trunk emerge.

Botanical name: Ravenala madagascariensis    Family: Strelitziaceae (Bird of Paradise family)

pic of mosque