In Ujjain, an ancient pilgrimage city now crowded with concrete, Forest Officer Anurag Tiwari is championing a project to bring back Mahakal Van, a sacred forest once described in scriptures, creating green spaces that connect nature with faith.
- Reviving Mahakal Van through sacred groves called Aastha Vans
- Combining faith and ecology to reconnect people with nature
- Engaging local temple trusts and communities as guardians
What happened
Ujjain, an ancient city famous for its religious temples, has seen much of its historic green cover replaced by urban development. Recognizing the city’s original identity as Mahakal Van—a sacred forest described in ancient texts—Indian Forest Service officer Anurag Tiwari launched a project to restore these lost natural spaces. The initiative focuses on identifying suitable land amidst the city’s dense infrastructure and creating groves that honor both ecology and spirituality.
By drawing inspiration from scriptures such as the Skanda Purana, the team established Aastha Vans—sacred groves planted with native and religiously significant tree species—along the traditional Panchkoshi Yatra pilgrimage route. These groves not only reinstate biodiversity including species like tamarind and miswak but also offer pilgrims and residents green sanctuaries that blend ecological restoration with cultural reverence.
Why it feels good
The project shows how environmental restoration can be deeply connected to cultural heritage, creating meaningful experiences for communities. Rather than isolated tree planting, the effort fosters a sense of ownership by involving temple trusts and village councils to oversee these sacred groves. This community engagement encourages long-term protection and strengthens the bond between people and their environment.
Additionally, the initiative supports local livelihoods through events like the Van Mela, which gathered traditional healers, forest product cooperatives, and herbal entrepreneurs, attracting over 1.5 lakh visitors and generating significant economic activity. The result is a hopeful model where nature conservation, spirituality, and sustainable development work in harmony.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors or residents interested in exploring Ujjain’s green revival can experience the blossoming Aastha Vans along the Panchkoshi pilgrimage route, where native trees and sacred plants create peaceful natural sanctuaries. Participating in future Van Mela events or similar community gatherings provides a chance to connect with local biodiversity and cultural traditions while supporting conservation efforts.
Looking ahead, efforts to restore urban biodiversity in historic cities like Ujjain could inspire similar projects across India and beyond, blending ancient wisdom with modern environmental care. Keeping an eye on how these sacred groves grow and thrive will be a rewarding way to witness nature and culture flourishing side by side.