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Hinduism and Nature
The basis of Hinduism is dharma or righteousness, incorporating duty, cosmic law and justice. Five thousand years ago, the Vedas showed a clear appreciation of the natural world and its ecology, the importance of the environment and the management of natural resources.
Hinduism and Nature delves into the religion's deep respect for all life forms, the forests and trees, rivers and lakes, animals and mountains, which are all manifestations of divinity. Nature is venerated all over India: every village has a sacred grove, every temple a sacred garden and sacred tree. In this fascinating book, scholar and environmentalist Nanditha Krishna explores both the classical and the tribal traditions that venerated nature, and convincingly argues that we can save the environment only by seeking answers in ancient wisdom
Hinduism and Nature delves into the religion's deep respect for all life forms, the forests and trees, rivers and lakes, animals and mountains, which are all manifestations of divinity. Nature is venerated all over India: every village has a sacred grove, every temple a sacred garden and sacred tree. In this fascinating book, scholar and environmentalist Nanditha Krishna explores both the classical and the tribal traditions that venerated nature, and convincingly argues that we can save the environment only by seeking answers in ancient wisdom
254 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 1, 2020
This book will show how dharma is deeply connected with Hindu way of relationship with ecosystem or nature. Whereas, recent brouhaha of sustainability, conservation of natural resources, greenhouse gas reduction etc. have created new era of western environmentalism, however, this movement did not emerge from out of love of nature or environment, but from to conserve natural resource so that it can be consumed for longer time. However, Hindu Dharma believes in interdependence. Human are not exclusive, they are organ of nature.
This book covers almost all aspects of Hindu way of thinking about nature. Only flaws that author relies on translation of Griffith regarding Vedas and that makes her to confuse. Sometime she says Veda prohibited meat eating and sacrifice, and next, Aryan ate meat and performed sacrifice. However, author's motive is not anti Hindu and she glorifies Hindu way of environmentalism in this book.
This book covers almost all aspects of Hindu way of thinking about nature. Only flaws that author relies on translation of Griffith regarding Vedas and that makes her to confuse. Sometime she says Veda prohibited meat eating and sacrifice, and next, Aryan ate meat and performed sacrifice. However, author's motive is not anti Hindu and she glorifies Hindu way of environmentalism in this book.
February 13, 2018
In simplest of the terms, this book lists the approach towards ecology from the perspective Hindu scriptures, beliefs and customs. Well-separated, it deals with flora, water, fauna, and other natural formations. For each of these, the author uses references from vedic, upanishadic, and other scriptures, as well as customs and practices, which help understand the approach that Hinduism has towards protection and reverence of the environment.
Hinduism and Nature, Book CoverThis is a well researched text, with interesting references, and language is simple and clear. It’s a perfect introduction to someone who is seeking the worldview on environment from the perspective of Hinduism. Concepts of preservation and conservation in the Hindu world view are suitably described. For those of who may be aware of some of these concepts, there is interesting trivia, up for consumption. And no surprises, when parallels (or contrasts) are drawn between between Hindu and Buddhist practices.
Initial part of each of the section is a conceptual description of environmental concern — which makes for interesting reading — of the references as well as the impact on the environment. As each chapter or section progresses, the prose-approach to the lists of various tanks, trees, mountains, gardens and what have you becomes tedious reading. The items in the list are very similar in nature, and it just seems a re-reading of a paragraph, over and over. What should have been tabulated is expanded in avoidable prose. This content, which comes across primarily as reference, should have been relegated to the end of the book, rather than embedding it in the primary text.
The book has a few images, which do not serve any purpose. They are low quality, small, often not more than an inch tall, and in black & white. It would have been easier to give a search phrase for the reader.
Worth a read if environment is an area of interest for you, and if you are curious about how Hinduism approached it.
Hinduism and Nature, Book CoverThis is a well researched text, with interesting references, and language is simple and clear. It’s a perfect introduction to someone who is seeking the worldview on environment from the perspective of Hinduism. Concepts of preservation and conservation in the Hindu world view are suitably described. For those of who may be aware of some of these concepts, there is interesting trivia, up for consumption. And no surprises, when parallels (or contrasts) are drawn between between Hindu and Buddhist practices.
Initial part of each of the section is a conceptual description of environmental concern — which makes for interesting reading — of the references as well as the impact on the environment. As each chapter or section progresses, the prose-approach to the lists of various tanks, trees, mountains, gardens and what have you becomes tedious reading. The items in the list are very similar in nature, and it just seems a re-reading of a paragraph, over and over. What should have been tabulated is expanded in avoidable prose. This content, which comes across primarily as reference, should have been relegated to the end of the book, rather than embedding it in the primary text.
The book has a few images, which do not serve any purpose. They are low quality, small, often not more than an inch tall, and in black & white. It would have been easier to give a search phrase for the reader.
Worth a read if environment is an area of interest for you, and if you are curious about how Hinduism approached it.
April 22, 2021
In the heart of Amazon Rainforests, there stands in the midst of the lush green sight, made of cold iron, a huge tower of 325 m.
Now, my curious readers, you might be wondering that which species of the Monkeys or the Sloths use cell phones for that they required a tower for better connectivity?
Not like that, some primates are better than us in that sense. So what the tower does? What’s the purpose of it?
Well, it does significant work. Scientists have put that tower, far away from the pollution of the cities, to get the accurate readings of Carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere. It is one of the many such towers situated around the globe to do the same task.
And every year, the results aren’t good news.
………
What makes any religion beautiful?
If we (for a moment) keep the shrine architectures and its grandness, their followers, the wisdom in their holy books and their culture and ritual aside, we definitely get something that makes any religion even more beautiful and that is the ability to see sacred in anything and in everything. In short, their association with the nature.
HINDUISM AND NATURE by Nanditha Krishna is a timely reminder of India’s culture that teaches us to maintain mutual understanding with our environment through religious texts.
It starts with a beautiful portrayal of how Indian housewives begin their day by cleaning the house and preparing food and ends with a clear-cut warning to the humanity that the lifestyle we’ve subscribed to would only lead this planet to ruin.
Every religion, in its manifestation, does not manifest humans as superior to any other beings of nature. So in my opinion, talking only about Hinduism wouldn’t be appropriate.
“Whatever our hands have touched, they are forever changed”
Development that costs ecological imbalance, invites crevices in the Earth’s equilibrium and degenerating Earth’s various natural cycles. Do we really want such developments?
Some rituals and taboos that our so-called modern society often mock as ‘Bizarre’ and ‘Orthodox’, have extraordinary ecological wisdom. Practically these are capable to safeguard everything that we ought to take care of.
How can you and I be of service?
It seems nothing in comparison with the amount of effort that should be given back to the earth. I’m 18+ and certainly don’t hope to apply for a driving license even in my near future too. And with cheerful readiness, I enjoy cycling. I enjoy being an eco-warrior. But it’s very less though. Very less.
Now, my curious readers, you might be wondering that which species of the Monkeys or the Sloths use cell phones for that they required a tower for better connectivity?
Not like that, some primates are better than us in that sense. So what the tower does? What’s the purpose of it?
Well, it does significant work. Scientists have put that tower, far away from the pollution of the cities, to get the accurate readings of Carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere. It is one of the many such towers situated around the globe to do the same task.
And every year, the results aren’t good news.
………
What makes any religion beautiful?
If we (for a moment) keep the shrine architectures and its grandness, their followers, the wisdom in their holy books and their culture and ritual aside, we definitely get something that makes any religion even more beautiful and that is the ability to see sacred in anything and in everything. In short, their association with the nature.
HINDUISM AND NATURE by Nanditha Krishna is a timely reminder of India’s culture that teaches us to maintain mutual understanding with our environment through religious texts.
It starts with a beautiful portrayal of how Indian housewives begin their day by cleaning the house and preparing food and ends with a clear-cut warning to the humanity that the lifestyle we’ve subscribed to would only lead this planet to ruin.
Every religion, in its manifestation, does not manifest humans as superior to any other beings of nature. So in my opinion, talking only about Hinduism wouldn’t be appropriate.
“Whatever our hands have touched, they are forever changed”
Development that costs ecological imbalance, invites crevices in the Earth’s equilibrium and degenerating Earth’s various natural cycles. Do we really want such developments?
Some rituals and taboos that our so-called modern society often mock as ‘Bizarre’ and ‘Orthodox’, have extraordinary ecological wisdom. Practically these are capable to safeguard everything that we ought to take care of.
How can you and I be of service?
It seems nothing in comparison with the amount of effort that should be given back to the earth. I’m 18+ and certainly don’t hope to apply for a driving license even in my near future too. And with cheerful readiness, I enjoy cycling. I enjoy being an eco-warrior. But it’s very less though. Very less.
January 13, 2019
Enjoyed reading “Hinduism and Nature” by Nanditha Krishna. This is an important book; both in content and inspiration. It starts with an account of the Indian housewife whose daily actitivities are rooted in worship and nature: “…every aspect of her life is intimately connected with nature and environment.”
The book goes on to describe in detail how the entire framework of existence is rooted in being sensitive to nature. The accounts of trees, rivers and mountains is enchanting. I particularly loved the way the author has delved into our rich spiritual tradition, and concludes with some powerful questions “each of us must ask ourselves, ‘How can I be of service? How can my service become an act of worship to honour and protect the earth?’”
A must-read for youngsters especially.
The book goes on to describe in detail how the entire framework of existence is rooted in being sensitive to nature. The accounts of trees, rivers and mountains is enchanting. I particularly loved the way the author has delved into our rich spiritual tradition, and concludes with some powerful questions “each of us must ask ourselves, ‘How can I be of service? How can my service become an act of worship to honour and protect the earth?’”
A must-read for youngsters especially.
August 17, 2025
The author, Nanditha Krishna, deserves heaps of appreciation for writing this very illuminating book that is sure to broaden the reader’s horizon. In a simple yet erudite language, the book provides the reason(s) behind the intimate relationship between Hinduism and nature, why the things that exist in nature have been sacred for the followers of the faith from ancient times. A PhD in ancient Indian history and research-cum-field work in environmental conservation enables her to explain how the value systems imbued in the ancient spiritual traditions of Hinduism have been and still are the most effective way to conserve natural resources and thereby ensure their ecological diversity and availability for future generations just as our ancestors, through their sustainable value systems over millennia, made certain their availability for us.
This book explains how Dharma (righteousness) and Ahimsa (non-violence) , the two core concepts of Hinduism, enabled the survival of not just many animal and plant species, but kept water bodies and even mountains pollution free. She provides very interesting information with references from Vedas, Upanishads and mythology which makes the reader curious to learn more. For example, in North India, the temples found on hill/mountain tops are majorly Shiva temples whereas in South India, those are Kartikeya (Murugan) temples. The mythological reason for this is mentioned.
Hinduism has a concept of sacred groves and gardens and their spiritual connection with the communities living near them and association with a local deity secured their survival. For example, Baba Roachi Ram and Peer Baba in Jammu & Kashmir, Khetnath and Jairamdas in Haryana, Haryali Devta and Devrada in Uttarakhand, Vansatti Devi and Bhairav Baba in Uttar Pradesh etc. They are found in almost all the states. A garden attached to a temple, known as Nandavan, is a long held tradition which contains a diverse species of fruit bearing, flower bearing and medicinal plants. There is strict prohibition of cutting any plant(s) in temple gardens.
The divinity and respect accorded to rivers and lakes in the Vedas and Upanishads and the holy dip for spiritual purification had kept them pollution free for thousands of years. The concept of temple tanks, known as Pushkarni/Kund/Sarovar in different parts of India, are traditional water management systems that not only provided water during the summer but also replenished ground water levels. However, changing value systems due to modernization, industrialization and development have polluted them.
Ahimsa, the concept of non-violence against fellow human and animal extends to ecological non-violence to include prohibition on cutting trees for they are the abode of the Gods. For example, Pipal is the most sacred tree in Hinduism because the Holy Trinity resides in them which explains why the Hindus circumambulate it seven times. There is also this concept of Sthal Vriksh, tree(s) found inside a temple premise where devotees offer coconuts and tie threads, an effective way to ensure plant diversity across the land. Towns like Vrindavan and Badrinath are named after trees! Even Gurudwaras are associated with trees because Guru Nanak attained enlightenment under the ber tree (Indian plum). The religious practice of Vriksh Prasadam, in Tirupati and Madurai wherein devotees can pay for the planting and maintenance of sapling(s) for divine blessing is much more effective than any modern afforestation method. This has led to scientists working with temple priests in Badrinath (Uttarakhand) encouraging pilgrims to plant saplings to enhance their pilgrimage experience and thus help to restore the ancient forest cover.
A verse in the Bhagavad Gita says “Those who are wise and humble treat equally, the Brahmin, cow, the elephant, dog and dog eater”. The concept of Vahan (vehicle of the Gods) ensured protection of animal diversity using spirituality and religion. A wonderful and very effective example of conservation of ecological biodiversity through religious beliefs is the Bishnoi community in the Thar desert. Guru Jamboji, the founder of the community in the 16th century, gave them 8 principles to preserve biodiversity in the harsh arid climate. The blackbuck, sacred to the Bishnois, roams freely with no threats. The overall result is the lush green Thar desert!
Mountains are sacred and have a spiritual connection because they are a comprehensive ecosystem. Mount Kailash in Tibet, sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains have remained unclimbed ensuring its pristine and pollution free environment. There are names of mountains and hills in every state of India that are sacred to the local people that have resulted in the protection and survival of biodiversity contained therein.
The festivals remind us of the importance of nature in our lives. For example, seeds symbolize the cycle of birth, life and renewal and play an important role in Hindu rituals during harvest festivals such as Bihu, Onam and others.
Our ancient civilization was an ecologically conscious civilization and all that was sacred and preserved for millennia are now threatened by rampant pollution. We must take from Mother Earth not more than our share.
This book is highly recommended to everyone to get the true essence of Hinduism and its ancient traditions if we are to ensure the proper management of natural resources for future generations.
This book explains how Dharma (righteousness) and Ahimsa (non-violence) , the two core concepts of Hinduism, enabled the survival of not just many animal and plant species, but kept water bodies and even mountains pollution free. She provides very interesting information with references from Vedas, Upanishads and mythology which makes the reader curious to learn more. For example, in North India, the temples found on hill/mountain tops are majorly Shiva temples whereas in South India, those are Kartikeya (Murugan) temples. The mythological reason for this is mentioned.
Hinduism has a concept of sacred groves and gardens and their spiritual connection with the communities living near them and association with a local deity secured their survival. For example, Baba Roachi Ram and Peer Baba in Jammu & Kashmir, Khetnath and Jairamdas in Haryana, Haryali Devta and Devrada in Uttarakhand, Vansatti Devi and Bhairav Baba in Uttar Pradesh etc. They are found in almost all the states. A garden attached to a temple, known as Nandavan, is a long held tradition which contains a diverse species of fruit bearing, flower bearing and medicinal plants. There is strict prohibition of cutting any plant(s) in temple gardens.
The divinity and respect accorded to rivers and lakes in the Vedas and Upanishads and the holy dip for spiritual purification had kept them pollution free for thousands of years. The concept of temple tanks, known as Pushkarni/Kund/Sarovar in different parts of India, are traditional water management systems that not only provided water during the summer but also replenished ground water levels. However, changing value systems due to modernization, industrialization and development have polluted them.
Ahimsa, the concept of non-violence against fellow human and animal extends to ecological non-violence to include prohibition on cutting trees for they are the abode of the Gods. For example, Pipal is the most sacred tree in Hinduism because the Holy Trinity resides in them which explains why the Hindus circumambulate it seven times. There is also this concept of Sthal Vriksh, tree(s) found inside a temple premise where devotees offer coconuts and tie threads, an effective way to ensure plant diversity across the land. Towns like Vrindavan and Badrinath are named after trees! Even Gurudwaras are associated with trees because Guru Nanak attained enlightenment under the ber tree (Indian plum). The religious practice of Vriksh Prasadam, in Tirupati and Madurai wherein devotees can pay for the planting and maintenance of sapling(s) for divine blessing is much more effective than any modern afforestation method. This has led to scientists working with temple priests in Badrinath (Uttarakhand) encouraging pilgrims to plant saplings to enhance their pilgrimage experience and thus help to restore the ancient forest cover.
A verse in the Bhagavad Gita says “Those who are wise and humble treat equally, the Brahmin, cow, the elephant, dog and dog eater”. The concept of Vahan (vehicle of the Gods) ensured protection of animal diversity using spirituality and religion. A wonderful and very effective example of conservation of ecological biodiversity through religious beliefs is the Bishnoi community in the Thar desert. Guru Jamboji, the founder of the community in the 16th century, gave them 8 principles to preserve biodiversity in the harsh arid climate. The blackbuck, sacred to the Bishnois, roams freely with no threats. The overall result is the lush green Thar desert!
Mountains are sacred and have a spiritual connection because they are a comprehensive ecosystem. Mount Kailash in Tibet, sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains have remained unclimbed ensuring its pristine and pollution free environment. There are names of mountains and hills in every state of India that are sacred to the local people that have resulted in the protection and survival of biodiversity contained therein.
The festivals remind us of the importance of nature in our lives. For example, seeds symbolize the cycle of birth, life and renewal and play an important role in Hindu rituals during harvest festivals such as Bihu, Onam and others.
Our ancient civilization was an ecologically conscious civilization and all that was sacred and preserved for millennia are now threatened by rampant pollution. We must take from Mother Earth not more than our share.
This book is highly recommended to everyone to get the true essence of Hinduism and its ancient traditions if we are to ensure the proper management of natural resources for future generations.
February 14, 2022
A lot of good research seems to have gone into this book. However the book reads more like an academic project, rather than an informative and narrative book for regular public.
Keyword here being 'narration', which is completely lacking. Each chapter starts off well with a little mythology and folklore but then slides into a geography/history lesson, which makes it all very boring.
All these facts could've been explained in a lighter and more engaging way, rather than as dense paragraphs that reminded me of wikipedia pages and school textbooks.
Having said all that, it's not a bad book at all. It's average at best.
Good concept, weak execution!
Keyword here being 'narration', which is completely lacking. Each chapter starts off well with a little mythology and folklore but then slides into a geography/history lesson, which makes it all very boring.
All these facts could've been explained in a lighter and more engaging way, rather than as dense paragraphs that reminded me of wikipedia pages and school textbooks.
Having said all that, it's not a bad book at all. It's average at best.
Good concept, weak execution!
March 12, 2022
This beautifully written book takes the reader on a journey rich with imagery to the forests, rivers, mountains, plants and animals that comprise the natural heritage of India. It draws on folklore and mythology to tell tales of the peaceful and reverential coexistence of ancient Indians and the natural world that surrounded them. In an age of environmental and spiritual deterioration, the book is a ray of hope that reconciles our faith in the divinity of nature and its close association with mankind.
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May 3, 2023How Nature and Hinduism inextricably mingled with each other is clearly explained in this book. Trees and its Nature and how its worship by Hindus and what is the reason behind circumambulating peepal tree were explained in a scientific manner. Numerous information about the mountains and rivers of India is really informative. Thanks to Nanditha Krishna.
September 9, 2020
Book seems well researched and contains interesting information. In some places the book read more like a mini encyclopedia where information is threaded from multiple sources, and in some places it takes the form of a narrative writing touching upon nature, religion, environment, mythology
January 11, 2018
You can read my review here : https://idiosyncraticidiots.wordpress...
October 9, 2019
This book is blend of spirituality, mythology and environment. A good read but there is up's & down
October 8, 2022
Good book, to dive into our roots and get interesting knowledge about our history, mythology. Some points are repeated, could have been avoided.
March 14, 2024
Very beautifully written and described. Loved the aspects of nature..A must read for broader knowledge both the subjects that make the title.of the book.
July 5, 2024
A lovely little book that takes you through various Indian scriptures through the lens of nature. Must read - https://www.anuradhagoyal.com/hinduis...
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February 1, 2018Informative.
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