SACRED FORESTS OF KODAGU: CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS ROOTS OF DEVARA KADU
Dr.A.N.Gayathri
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Sociology, Field Marshal K M Cariappa College, Madikeri, Karnataka
Abstract
Devara Kadu, the sacred groves of Kodagu, are living symbols of the region’s cultural heritage and religious beliefs. These forest patches are traditionally protected by local communities because they are believed to be the abodes of deities, ancestral spirits, and guardian forces. The cultural and religious practices associated with Devara Kadu including rituals, festivals, ancestor worship, oral traditions, and customary laws have ensured their preservation for centuries. This paper explores how faith, tradition, and community norms serve as powerful tools for environmental conservation, social cohesion, and moral guidance. By examining the cultural and religious roots of Devara Kadu, the discussion highlights the interconnectedness of spirituality, culture, and ecological sustainability, demonstrating how indigenous knowledge systems can protect nature while maintaining cultural identity.
Keywords: Conservation, biodiversity, sustainable development, Cultural, religious, Worship
Journal Name :
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EPRA International Journal of Socio-Economic and Environmental Outlook(SEEO)
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Published on : 2026-06-03
| Vol | : | 13 |
| Issue | : | 5 |
| Month | : | May |
| Year | : | 2026 |