Abstract
Living in harmony with Nature has been an integral part of Indian culture. The maintenance of sacred groves is a unique example of a traditional practice in India for contribution to forest and biodiversity conservation. These groves also conserve age old traditions in the form of worship of folk deity, folk tales, songs, music, and dance. These are found all over India e.g. the Western Ghats, the west coast, Rajasthan, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra in tribal areas. The sacred groves are maintained and protected by the tribal/indigenous communities of the region. Each sacred grove has a presiding deity associated, which is worshiped daily and makes the area sacrosanct. The local community celebrates the annual festival dedicated to local residing deities for the benefit and prosperity of the whole village. Bigger rituals extending for hours are also conducted in these groves on particular days. The taboos, rituals, and beliefs supplemented with mystic folk tales, folk songs, dances associated with the groves have been the prime reason in preserving the sacred groves in pristine condition. In present scenario of clashes between the environmental protection and development, the tradition of living in harmony with nature can conserve age old cultural traditions, environment and biodiversity which have been overshadowed by the scientific and technological developments. In contemporary times when environmental pollution and deforestation is on the rise sacred groves remain oases in desserts. We consider how policy formulators can strengthen popular support by providing legal support to maintain these areas.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Economic, Social, and Cultural Context
KEYWORDS
Tribe, Indigenous, Sacred grooves, Deity, Environment, Culture, Policy
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