Bharat is a land with a rich past, an inspirational present, and an aspirational future. However, more often than not the spotlight is never shone on those individuals and communities who are making a difference and bringing glory to the nation. Small victories that go unnoticed, have a huge potential to positively influence the society.
The Bharat Rising Series cuts through the noise to bring you the most inspiring stories, remarkable achievements, and positive progress from across our nation and the wider Bharatiya community. In this weekly series, we not only bring to you inspirational present-day stories but also provide a glimpse of the rich civilizational heritage that goes under the radar.
Economy
New Zealand’s Parliament has approved a free trade agreement with Bharat, reducing or eliminating tariffs on about 95% of New Zealand’s exports to Bharat. The deal is important for Bharat’s economy as it will expand export opportunities, strengthen bilateral trade and attract investment. It may benefit Bharatiya industries, including textiles, engineering, footwear and agriculture, by improving access to the New Zealand market. Increased trade can support businesses, employment and economic growth, strengthening Bharat’s position in global commerce.
Sports
Bharat achieved a remarkable double victory by winning both the men’s and women’s Junior Asia Cup hockey titles. This success highlights the country’s growing strength in international hockey and the impressive talent of its young players. Furthermore, it also inspires young athletes to take up the sport and dream of representing their country. These achievements give us reason to believe in the bright future of Bharatiya hockey on the international stage.
Dhiraj Bommadevara scripted history by becoming the first Bharatiya male recurve archer to win a gold medal at the Archery World Cup Final. His achievement marks an important milestone in Bharatiya archery and highlights that years of hard work, focus and perseverance always brings results.
Continuing the winning streak, Bharatiya women’s cricket team won a record eighth Women’s Asia Cup title defeating Sri Lanka in the Finals. Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana produced a record-breaking 129-run partnership. The bowlers then completed the job by dismissing Sri Lanka for 111 in 19.4 overs, with Shree Charani taking four wickets and Deepti Sharma claiming three. Shafali Verma was declared Player of the Match. A round of applause is also in order for the Bharatiya women’s chess team that began its World Chess Olympiad campaign with an impressive 4–0 victory.
Civilizational Bharat Snippet
Bharat’s rich past deserves to be celebrated as well as introduced to the younger generations. There are several dynasties lost in the sand of time & kept away from public eye by left-leaning academicians and politicians. Similarly, several practices, concepts, ideas, and customs that can serve us well even today but have been discarded or kept buried due to so-called modernization. This snippet aims to give a glimpse of dynasties that deserve the spotlight, highlight concepts that enrich our civilization, and/or practices/customs that may help us find solutions to our modern problems.
Devrai: Hindu tradition of Sacred Groves
Climate change and its ill-effects are being witnessed today with agricultural produce reportedly affected. Today, deforestation, climate change, and the loss of biodiversity are serious environmental problems. The solution to mitigating environmental crisis lies in ancient Hindu wisdom.
One ancient Hindu practice that need to be revived urgently to solve this modern issue is the tradition of Sacred Groves, known as Devrai in Maharashtra. Sacred groves are forests protected by local communities because they are considered sacred and associated with Bhagwan, deities, or ancestral spirits. People traditionally avoided cutting trees, hunting animals, or disturbing the natural environment in these areas.
Reviving the tradition of Devrai can help protect forests and preserve nature. Communities can identify and protect small areas of forests, plant native trees, and create awareness about the importance of biodiversity. Schools, temples, and local organisations can work together to maintain these sacred natural spaces.
Sacred groves provide shelter to birds, animals, and insects. They also help maintain soil quality, support groundwater recharge, and improve the local climate. By combining this ancient practice with modern conservation methods, we can protect the environment and create a healthier future.
Reviving Devrai not just ensures we fulfill our duty and responsibility towards nature but also helps to pass on ancient wisdom to younger generations and ensures continuity of traditions.
Suggested Reading
1) Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah Death Anniversary: A sacrifice that continues to inspire generations
3) Are we the last generation to correct the injustices against Our People?
4) Hindus and Hebrews – Contrasting Parallels : A Case for Hindu Rashtra
