For the Kodavas, Kaveri Sankramana is one of their most significant and widely celebrated festivals. During this festival, the region comes alive with joyous celebrations, as communities praise the river that sustains and nourishes life.
For generations, palmyra climbers have safeguarded the tree that sustains them culturally and economically. But as times change, how can we ensure the survival of both this iconic tree and the livelihoods it supports?
The Soligas of Karnataka honor nature through worship and traditional songs, preserving their bond with the forest. These oral traditions, passed down generations, celebrate life, animals, and ecosystems
In a quaint village near Gokarna, the temple town nestled in Uttara Kannada, Deepavali takes on a one-of-a-kind charm. Known as Madina Habba or Boore Habba, this festival of lights transforms into a celebration of medicinal herbs, blending tradition with ...
In Tamil Nadu, women begin their day by drawing a kōlam first thing in the morning outside their doorstep as a daily ritual. But at the intersection of the art form and the aesthetics lies a subtle message to ...
About 10 km east of Bengaluru's Kempegowda Airport lies Nallur, a 53-acre grove with 275 ancient tamarind trees. These centuries-old trees, alongside a mysterious, ancient temple, have witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties.
Since ancient times, humans have looked to nature as both guide and muse. The elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—were not merely physical components of the environment; they were revered as sacred forces, often personified and worshipped. This reverence for the non-human world is deeply embedded in Indian culture, where profound respect for nature has long ensured that human life remains in harmony with the natural world.
However, in recent times, the delicate balance between humanity and nature has shifted, with human interests often taking precedence. Yet, despite these challenges, the deep-rooted reverence for nature within Indian society has often served as a crucial counterbalance. People have demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to coexist with the natural world, continuing to worship and cherish it even in the face of negative interactions. The same folklore, art, music, and dance that once celebrated the beauty and bounty of nature now stand as stark reminders of the need to preserve what remains.
Today, more than ever, it is vital to recognize and celebrate these ancient connections. This is the essence of ‘Vana Katha’—stories of cultures deeply rooted in nature.
The indigenous tribes of the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve follow ancient practices in honey-collection that allow co-existence of bees and humans. They have managed to protect the fragile ecosystem around them for centuries.
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Among the tangled roots and dark waters of Uttara Kannada's Myristica swamps, nature and spirituality entwine in a relationship as old as the land itself.
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In Tulu Nadu, the tiger dance (Hulivesha) has been a traditional way of portraying the big cat's power, and appeasing the protective goddess to prevent animal attacks.
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In cities overshadowed by man-made infrastructure, it is easy to forget the living heritage such as trees that stand as silent witness to the struggle between humans and the environment.
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About 10 km east of Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport is a unique grove of around 275 tamarind trees, at a place called Nallur.
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In Tamil Nadu, women begin their day by drawing a kōlam first thing in the morning outside their doorstep as a daily ritual.
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In a quaint village near Gokarna, the temple town nestled in Uttara Kannada, Deepavali takes on a one-of-a-kind charm.
Read More
The Soligas of Karnataka honor nature through worship and traditional songs, preserving their bond with the forest.
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For generations, palmyra climbers have safeguarded the tree that sustains them culturally and economically.
Read More
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If you know of a story, tradition, or cultural practice that showcases the deep connection between humans and nature, share it with us.
Write to us on submissions@natureinfocus.in
