As concerns mount over pollution in the Ganga during Mahakumbh 2025, former Norwegian Minister and ex-UNEP Executive Director Erik Solheim has offered a strong endorsement of India’s ancient ecological wisdom. Amidst the allegations of environmental degradation, Solheim’s experience at the Mahakumbh paints a contrasting picture—one that highlights the spiritual gathering’s deep-rooted reverence for nature.
Solheim, who took part in the sacred gathering, described his experience as transformative. “Mahakumbh was incredible. Indian philosophy sees humans as part of nature, unlike Western thought, which places them above it. Indian culture deeply reveres rivers, forests, animals, birds, and Mother Earth,” he stated, emphasising how India’s traditions provide a sustainable model of coexistence with the environment.
Far from being merely a religious gathering, Mahakumbh, according to him, serves as a testament to India’s time-honored tradition of environmental consciousness.
Solheim, who took a holy dip in the Ganga, described it as a profound experience. “It was not just a religious practice but an expression of gratitude towards nature. This act symbolises the human-nature connection that is deeply ingrained in Indian philosophy.”
In his remarks, Solheim stated the need for the world to embrace this ancient Indian wisdom, especially at a time when global environmental crises are escalating. “Mother Earth does not depend on us; we depend on her. Learning to coexist with nature is crucial, and Indian culture offers valuable guidance for the modern world,” he said.
He further highlighted the deep symbolism in Indian traditions, pointing out how nature is integrated into religious beliefs. “That’s why they made Ma Ganga, why they venerated the cow for its milk, and why they worship deities like Bhagwan Ganesh and Bhagwan Hanuman, blending human and animal forms,” he explained. “It is time for the world to understand and embrace this ancient Indian wisdom.”
Solheim also spoke about the need for a shift in global environmental perspectives, particularly in the West. “The old idea in the West needs to change. For centuries, humans were seen as superior to nature, as though we had the right to exploit it without consequence. That notion has led to destruction. What we need is a new concept of nature—an old Indian concept of nature—where humans recognise that they are part of Mother Earth and not above her.”
Reflecting on history, Solheim drew inspiration from the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, the revered Indian philosopher of the 8th century, who spoke about the oneness of humanity and nature. “One great inspiration from this Mahakumbh is that we need to focus on oneness—not just of humanity, but of man and nature. That ancient Indian perspective is what the modern world desperately needs.”
Praising the magnitude of Mahakumbh, he called it the “greatest gathering in human history” and expressed admiration for how it unites people in celebration. “400 million people coming together over six weeks—not just to take a dip in the Ganga, but to celebrate life, to be together with friends and families, and to participate in meaningful discussions on spirituality and nature.”
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