On Earth Day various environment-centric programs are being organized all over the world. Diverse steps are being taken to conserve Mother Nature and now people understand how crucial it is to protect Her. On ‘Earth Day’, all are requested to ‘invest in our planet’. It is everyone’s responsibility to do the same for protecting the environment.

Thankfully, our great country, India has been working towards saving the earth since ancient times. Our sages gave much importance to the environment. And the use of various plants, leaves, trees and flowers in different rituals is a testimony to this.

Trees, an integral part of the Indian tradition

The wise sages of ancient India knew the great importance of the environment’s role and so they successfully protected diverse plants and trees over the years. In the Indian tradition of worship, there is a norm of planting five trees. The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) is worshiped during different festivals.

The Vat Vriksha (Indian banyan, Ficus benghalensis) is another sacred tree that is planted in holy places across India. An old tradition has been to tie threads around some sacred trees in order to fulfill a wish. Deep emotions are attached to such beautiful customs. People keep the Holy Tulsi plant (Holy Basil) in the front courtyard of their home and worship it as a symbol of Divinity. Its religious and medicinal properties are well-known.

Mango Tree leaves or Ashoka tree (Saraca Indica) leaves are being used since times immemorial during various rituals like marriage and housewarming ceremonies. Such customs show the close connection of the Indian culture with greenery and the environment.

Culture & tradition, protecting the environment

Moreover, in The Vedas and Upanishads, many verses highlight the importance of the plants, trees and environment. In scriptures, it’s written in clear words that if you plant a tree it is akin to giving society resourceful children. In Vedic mantras also, we say, may trees and plants bestow peace upon us.

Further, in India, there is a tradition to feed crows during the pious Pitra Paksha. This is an extraordinary tradition playing a great role in conserving nature. Crows play a wonderful role in cross-pollination enabling the planting of trees like Neem (Azadirachta indica), Peepal and Banyan. That’s why a crow has a special place in our culture and tradition. We feed them and protect them. It can be said that we have been protecting them for quite a long time.

Ensure a green and prosperous future for all

Understand that the more you focus on nurturing greenery and vegetation, the happier you will be. Trees are a vital part of the water cycle in nature. Their role in the formation of clouds and rain is scientifically evident.

It is unfortunate that due to global warming, glaciers are melting leading to grave climate crises and the spread of novel diseases. Environmentalists have expressed major concern over the threat to the existence of coastal cities. The climate crisis must be tackled now and everyone needs to take responsibility for protecting and saving this earth that all call home.

So, keep taking small yet impactful efforts to conserve nature and the environment. Plant as many trees as you can, keep your surroundings green by recycling and take other steps to keep the environment clean. Our sages have already invested a lot in our planet and now it’s your turn.

Your small steps will bring a huge difference in the health of the environment. Take those steps happily. Ultimately, it will ensure a green and prosperous future for the entire humanity.