Festivals teach us to live with nature
New Delhi: The term ‘environment’ refers to the surroundings and atmosphere in which we live. All the biotic and abiotic components present in nature contribute to the structure of the environment. This includes land, water, air, vegetation, animals, humans, and sunlight as essential elements of the environment. Earth is perhaps the only celestial body in the universe where conditions favorable for life exist, which is why life could develop here. For the continuity of life on Earth, it is essential that the components of nature remain in a certain proportion and balance, ensuring the safety of our present and future. Since the beginning of creation, there has been an interdependent relationship between nature and humans. With the advent of human life on Earth, the emergence of needs was inevitable. The life of early humans was entirely dependent on nature, and thus there was harmony between humans and nature. However, in the modern era, human needs have reached their peak, and to fulfill these, humans have started exploiting nature mercilessly. The result is in front of us—”environmental pollution,” a consequence of modernity. Pollution has put the entire universe in danger.
Our ancient religious traditions are so significant that they not only provide prosperity and happiness to life but are also scientifically aligned. For example, take the ritual of yagya (sacrificial fire). Yagya is a concrete scientific process and an integral part of our life. Maharishi Dayanand had also stated, “If you want environmental purity and the growth of happiness, perform havan-yagya (rituals) in every household every morning and evening.” Universally, it is absolutely true that our festivals and celebrations inspire us to live in harmony with nature, fostering a life of balance and responsibility. Various festivals are celebrated during different seasons, teaching us the proper way to use natural resources. For example, during festivals like Holi and Diwali, children use natural colors, which do not harm the environment. Instead, these festivals spread the message of joy and unity. Festivals like Vasant Panchami and Navratri highlight the importance of natural beauty and encourage us to appreciate it.
Moreover, most of the materials used in the celebration of these festivals were natural and biodegradable, making the festivities more sustainable. This proves how our culture and traditions motivate us to maintain harmony with nature. Thus, our festivals not only inspire us to live an enjoyable and fulfilling life in collaboration with nature but also teach us the responsibility of conserving our natural resources properly. At present, it has become highly relevant to ensure that our relationship with nature becomes more stable over time. It has also become necessary to question whether nature is abandoning us. This should be the most pressing question of our time. The changes in the ecosystem over the past decade signal that nature is unhappy with us. The standards of development we have set over the last 100 years, and the extent to which we have neglected nature, are the root causes of this. We have never seriously considered the life-threatening events that have arisen as a result. Unplanned development and excessive energy consumption have become major sources of crises.
When James Watt invented the steam engine powered by coal, he probably had no idea that this “black gold” would become a strangling force. Today, the world’s most significant environmental discussions revolve around how we can free ourselves from the carbon and other gases produced by coal. We have launched an unrelenting assault on nature’s resources. The situation today is such that essential elements of the ecosystem, whether rivers, forests, or soil, are gradually disappearing. The most concerning part is that the efforts to restore these resources have not been as serious as the efforts to destroy them for the sake of development. For example, if a square kilometer of forest can absorb 200 tons of carbon dioxide, just imagine how the continuous decline of forests across the world is playing a critical role in increasing carbon and other gases. Most rivers are on the verge of drying up, largely because deforestation has disrupted the process of rainwater absorption. Gradually, even rain-fed rivers are starting to abandon us.
Take the present situation as an example
as we see all of North India has been completely deprived of winter rainfall. This is having a major impact on agriculture. Such a deficiency will not only have an adverse effect on groundwater levels but will also increase the likelihood of large-scale forest fires in the future. This will have a wide-reaching effect on the ecosystem, and the coming summer will be extremely hot. It is also certain that higher temperatures will directly impact air pollution. According to the United Nations, in 2020, half a million people died due to air pollution, with more than 250,000 of them being children. We have made every effort to improve our quality of life, but we haven’t cared about nature. If we had prepared some strategies, from local to global levels, perhaps the situation would have been better. In international conferences, all the focus is on individual development. In such a scenario, we are left with the option to understand the seriousness of the crisis at the local level.
Our country is known for its connection with nature
Our traditions have always sought ways to bow to nature, but we have not paid homage to it as much as we have taken from it. For example, we celebrate Vasant Panchami, which marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of seasonal changes. The scientific reason for celebrating it is to prepare ourselves for the changing weather. We celebrate Vasant Panchami, but we often miss out on the associated actions and their impacts. If the world can receive any message about the conservation of nature, it can come from our country. It is our nation that can introduce the world to the divine qualities and significance of air, soil, forests, and water and make them aware of the meaning of life connected to them. Certainly, Western countries have taken the initiative in terms of development, but the answers to questions related to nature conservation lie in our country, where we integrate nature into various rituals and festivals. Thus, it is our responsibility to also bow to nature during our festivals, especially on Vasant Panchami. We often seek refuge in God during times of distress or joy, but we have not created any occasions to bow to nature itself.
It is well-known that our life is only possible because of nature, while all other material things may create a world that we can enjoy. However, to enjoy anything, the body and life itself are necessary, and this is only possible through a healthy ecosystem. If this is the case, then we need to understand that nature has no substitute. Luxuries and other resources may have alternatives, but is there any alternative to air, soil, forests, or water? The answer would be big no. Therefore, it is essential that, along with paying homage to nature, we incorporate it into our daily lives to secure the future. In Hinduism, there is a tradition and importance of worshipping and praying to the elements of nature, as it is believed that our lives are governed by nature. Hence, nature is regarded as a deity, God, and ancestor. Most Hindu festivals, traditions, and celebrations are derived from or connected to nature. In the Indian subcontinent, even the change in seasons is described through the transition of various seasons. These seasons have influenced our traditions in many ways. Such changes, along with their stories, deeply impact the climate change patterns not only of the subcontinent but also of the entire world.
Evolution of environmental laws in India
Ancient Indian culture has always been associated with nature. The end of the monsoon calls for the arrival of various Indian festivals. These festivals are celebrated with great pomp and fervor. However, many times while celebrating these festivals, we tend to neglect the impact it is having on our environmental surroundings. In India, environmental importance has been prevalent and is mentioned in the Vedas, Upanishads, and various other Puranas. The concept of Dharma, known to many as the foundational principle of Hinduism, mentions that protecting the environment is an expression of Dharma. The Bhagwad Gita in many of its texts has referred to the presence of the Supreme Divinity throughout nature. In the later Vedic period, cutting trees and plants was strictly prohibited. It was, however, in the British era and post-independence, the real meaning of the term environmental jurisprudence was put forth. The basic meaning of the term environmental jurisprudence is the protection of the environment with various legal enactments. Article 51A of the Constitution of India makes protection of the environment a fundamental duty of every citizen of the country. Further, Article 21 guarantees the right to life, wherein the right to environment is a part. In 1972, the Stockholm Conference on Human Environment was held by the United Nations wherein, various policies and plans were set up with regards to the protection of the environment. This gave rise to a well-defined and separate legal framework covering all the aspects of Mother Nature in India also.
Vat Savitri Vrat: – The Vat Savitri fast is observed for the long life and well-being of one’s husband. Vat refers to the banyan tree, which is known for its abundant positive energy and strength. This tree is one of the most beneficial and friendly trees in nature because it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and continuously releases oxygen. According to tradition, any wish made while sitting under this tree is fulfilled. As per the Skanda Purana and Bhavishyottara Purana, this tree is a boon not only for human life but also for all living organisms in nature. This is why we Indians worship this invaluable tree.
Tulsi Marriage and Worship – Across India, the Tulsi plant holds a significant place due to its sacred and medicinal properties. It is said that when the gods awaken, the first prayer they hear is addressed to Harivallabha Tulsi. Therefore, Tulsi is regarded as a living, life-giving plant. Tulsi marriages are celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm, marking the auspicious time of the gods’ awakening. Even today, millions of homes in the country have flourishing Tulsi plants. This is a true testament to the power of our eternal tradition and our love for nature.
Ashwattha Upanayan Vrat – This festival strengthens the concept of life and liberation. As we all know, oxygen is essential for sustaining life. To ensure the continuous supply of oxygen in nature, this fast, known as Ashwattha Upanayan Vrat, is observed. Ashwattha refers to the Peepal tree, which is known for producing the most oxygen. It is called a storehouse of life-giving air because of its immense ability to generate oxygen and absorb harmful gases. For this reason, the Peepal tree is worshipped during times of bad omens, invasions, pandemics, and diseases like leprosy.
Mango-Mahua Marriage – The mango is known as the king of fruits and reaches the plates of people not only in India but across the world. Therefore, its protection is crucial. In our culture, trees are married to each other to ensure their protection. This practice also reinforces the scientific importance of preserving life and maintaining balance. Mahua is another tree that bears fruit for up to 60 years and is rich in medicinal properties. Its leaves, seeds, bark, and trunk help treat ailments like respiratory disorders, maternal milk deficiency, and blood pressure issues. According to scientists, Mahua contains glucose, vitamins, calcium, protein, fiber, fat, and minerals that provide relief from serious diseases. Additionally, the tree’s thick trunk is used for construction, and its leaves are used to make plates. Its seeds also provide oil for fuel. In short, “one tree-many benefits,” which helps sustain life even in tough times?
Yagya and Environment – Yagya fulfills human needs, whether physical, spiritual, social, natural, or personal. It is performed to fulfill desires. The Vedas state, “Perform yagya to attain heaven.” Yagya brings peace, happiness, and joy to life. When King Dasharatha performed the Putreshti Yagya, he was blessed with four sons. Thus, yagya fulfills all desires. Our ancestors also said that a house without yagya is not a home for the Arya. Fire is invaluable, and health is related to yagya. Countless unknown microbes live in our environment and inside our pores, blood, and joints. yagya destroys these harmful microbes. Diseases like tuberculosis, smallpox, and malaria can be treated through yagya. In homes where yagya is performed daily, there is protection from illness. According to Manu, “Through yagya and fasting, the human body and soul become worthy of attaining the supreme truth.” yagya makes the sun, which provides life, beneficial, and the rainclouds also become beneficial and bring good rain. The Vedas say, “yagya brings rain, and rain brings life.” Thus, yagya holds the desire for the happiness of all living beings.
Our ancient sages selected the materials for yagya based on scientific research. Trees like banyan, Peepal, mango, Bilva, Palash, Shami, Gular, Ashoka, Parijat, Amla, and Maulshree were included in yagya offerings along with ghee. This practice is scientifically valid today because the purpose of yagya is to purify the five elements, which are part of our environment. The Vedic purpose of yagya is also to maintain environmental purity and balance. The science of yagya states that when a substance is offered into the fire, the fire breaks it down from a gross form into a subtle form. Therefore, the Yajurveda calls fire “Dhuras,” meaning the fire’s ability to break down material into its most subtle form, which then becomes highly active. This is a scientific principle, just as an atom is subtler than a molecule, and an electron is subtler than an atom. Thus, in yagya, these principles work together. The substances offered into the fire are broken down by the fire into a subtle form, becoming more active and spreading their effects over a vast area.
Indian discourse on environment
A large section of the Indian people still considers their culture revered and reliable. The tradition of sanctifying many pilgrimage places and celebrating festivals still exists in our country. All the days and festivals of pilgrimage are related to natural resources. There is a chain of pilgrimages from the Himalayas to Kanya Kumari. By entering this sacred environment man becomes sinless. The provision behind such a journey was kept that humans can gain knowledge of the geography, environment of different places, places of entertainment, sanctuaries, forests, lakes and get auspicious darshan. This gives an understanding of people’s lifestyle, lifestyle and ways of living and gives a feeling of unity in diversity. At the same time, man is influenced by natural beauty and he experiences mental peace.
Our culture has been based on environmental protection, which puts a stop to pollution and accepts spiritual psychology and makes it clear that the safety of human life and the protection of sanctity depend on the protection of natural resources. According to Indian culture, a person who has spiritual experience can fulfill his interests with limited resources, he becomes free from social and economic constraints in every way and rises above the discrimination of high and low. Today, there is a need for man to strengthen his power in the interest of the nation, understand moral values and be bound by moral discipline, only then his materialistic tendencies can be curbed. There is clear evidence in our ancient scriptures that no special study and thinking is required to complete such a task.
Kalidas, Surdas, Raskhan, Tulsidas, Kabirdas did not receive education from any institution, but in their works they portrayed nature in such a way that its destruction could not even be thought of. Kalidas expressed the idea of environmental protection in Meghdoot and Abhigyan Shakuntalam. The role of forests, rivers, animals and birds is described in Ramayana and other religious texts and Upanishads. These works are more in line with and justified by today’s system than they might have been popular in the society of that time. The difference is that the Indian moral discipline at that time emphasized introversion, self-control and renunciation and did not support others taking over the society (plants, animals) and ruling and dominating them. Self-motivation was given to focus on the fact that moral enthusiasm and insight should be gained through thinking and meditation, so that excessive pressure cannot be put on external forces and victory can be achieved over oneself. According to a story in the Mahabharata, Indian sages had even donated their bones to destroy the demons. It is a matter of regret that today, influenced by some other civilization and culture, to fulfill our eternal interests; we have considered capital and development as the focal point or main basis of life and we are destroying the environment, rivers and trees that protect our lives; we are also polluting them.
Conclusion
We have the honor of being the world’s largest and best democracy. Despite this, today we are obsessed with Western ways in everything from clothing to eating habits, from knowledge to respect, from production to consumption, and from understanding to thinking. Indian culture plays an important and positive role in environmental protection. An unbreakable relationship has been established between humans and nature, which is completely scientific and balanced. In our scriptures, trees, plants, flowers, mountains, waterfalls, animals, birds, wild animals, rivers, lakes, forests, soil, valleys and even stones are worshipable, love and respect has been said for them. This thinking of ours is meaningful for keeping the environment free from pollution and valuable for conservation. Our culture provides a formula for rule-based and scientific technology to protect the environment. There is no place for evil qualities like narrow-mindedness, bigotry, hatred, isolation etc. anywhere in it.
There is a need that we should sincerely teach moral discipline to the entire public, so that the feeling of love and enthusiasm towards the environment can be strengthened. Whatever purposes our scriptures may have been written in mind, one thing is clear that today this system is especially capable of giving a new direction to environmental protection and eliminating the challenges arising from pollution. Education about environmental protection should be started from childhood itself and faith should be established in the minds of people. When an innocent child is very happy with the natural beauty around him, then why does a mature mind think of its destruction? Therefore, we should try to make people follow natural beauty as much as possible and give them knowledge related to it. Make them aware that we are surrounded from all sides by the protective shield provided by the environment, so we should never think of making holes in this shield, but should strengthen it.
Y.P. Singh
President, Indian Nursery Association
Editor, Nursery Today
