Indigenous Ecological Knowledge in Indian Literature: A Critical Study

Abstract

Indigenous Ecological Knowledge (IEK) forms a vital component of India’s cultural and literary heritage. Rooted in centuries of lived experiences, this knowledge reflects a harmonious relationship between human beings and nature. Indian literature-especially tribal, folk and regional writings-preserve and transmit ecological wisdom through myths, oral traditions, and narratives. This paper explores how Indian literature embodies indigenous ecological consciousness and contributes to environmental sustainability. Using an ecocritical framework and qualitative textual analysis, the study examines select literary texts and cultural practices. The findings highlight that indigenous knowledge systems offer sustainable alternatives to modern ecological crises and must be integrated into contemporary discourse and education.