Environment as the Foundation of Life: Vedic Insights on Human Wellness and Survival
Dr. A. K. Gupta, IFS (Retd.)
June 5, 2025
On this World Environment Day, observed on June 5, we are reminded of our deep and sacred connection with nature. The official theme for World Environment Day 2025, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” calls for urgent global action to address the devastating impact of plastic waste on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
Yet this call is not new. India, the land of Vedic knowledge has, for millennia, recognized the sacred bond between humans and nature. Through the concept of the PanchaMahabhuta—the five great elements—our ancient wisdom laid the foundation for ecological consciousness long before modern environmentalism emerged. India has nurtured and shared this holistic understanding with the world. But today, we must also remind ourselves of this wisdom and reawaken it in our policies, practices, and daily lives.
The PanchaMahabhuta teaches that all life is composed of five elemental forces:
1.Prithvi (Earth) – The land, forests, and mountains nurture all life. When we degrade this element—through deforestation or unsustainable agriculture—we not only harm biodiversity but also threaten our food security.
2.Apas (Water) – Water is life. Yet today, rivers are getting polluted, groundwater is depleting, and oceans are choked with plastic. To protect Apas is to protect the water within us—our blood, our cells, our very survival.
3.Tejas (Fire) – Tejas represents energy and transformation. Industrial emissions and fossil fuel use disturb its balance, driving global warming. By choosing renewables and reducing our carbon footprint, we honour this element.
4.Vayu (Air) – Air pollution is now a leading cause of disease and premature death. Clean air is not a luxury but a necessity. Respecting Vayu means supporting clean energy, green cover, and urban design that breathes.
5.Akasha (Space) – Akasha is the subtle space that holds all elements. Noise, congestion, and mental unrest disturb its harmony. Mindful living, calm environments, and preserving open spaces help restore Akasha.
These elements are the building blocks of all life, including the human body. When we pollute or exploit them, we disrupt not only the natural world but also the balance within ourselves.
Therefore, the Pancha Mahabhuta reminds us that we are not separate from nature; we are a microcosm of it. Environmental destruction is self-destruction.Protecting the environment is not charity—it is self-preservation.
On this World Environment Day, we must remember and reclaim this ecological wisdom in everyday life. We may draw strength from both our ancient traditions and modern science. Let us reaffirm the timeless bond between nature and humanity—and act boldly to protect it for generations to come.
(Tripurainfo)
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