Udaipur, April 23, 2025 — In observance of Earth Day, the Shanti Peeth Institute organized a meaningful day-long event at the historically and ecologically rich Myra Cave near Gogunda, Udaipur. The program included a symposium, meditation, nature introspection, and a cleanup drive, drawing attention to the urgent need for environmental responsibility and protection of heritage landscapes like the Aravalli ranges.
Earth is Not for Exploitation, But Reverence
In his keynote, Prof. Neeraj Sharma, Head of the Sanskrit Department at Mohanlal Sukhadia University, emphasized the spiritual and cultural reverence of Earth. Referencing the Atharva Veda, he highlighted that the Earth is sustained not by exploitation, but through values such as truth, discipline, generosity, and sacrifice. “We call Earth ‘Mother’ not to consume her, but to protect and cherish her gifts,” he said.
Thought Leaders Raise Concerns on Development vs. Destruction
Former Chief Town Planner of Rajasthan, Satish Shrimali, criticized modern development models that neglect environmental and health considerations. Shanti Peeth founder Anant Ganesh Trivedi warned about the destruction of Aravalli hills, stating that erosion and landslides are direct consequences of human ingratitude toward nature.
Prof. Mahesh Sharma, an environmentalist, highlighted the danger posed by mining near Myra Cave, calling for urgent local awareness and activism to safeguard the area. Advocate Umesh Chandra Sharma invoked historical wisdom, reminding participants of their duty to preserve ancestral principles and natural resources.
Myra Cave’s Historic Significance
Historian Dr. Shrikrishna Jugnu provided a deep historical insight, describing Myra Cave as a strategic site used by Maharana Pratap for storing traditional weapons during the Haldighati era. Its location, close to important Rajputana sites like Haldighati, Rakttalai, and the cremation ground of Maharana Udai Singh, makes it both ecologically and historically invaluable.
Youth Engagement and Conservation Call
Dr. B.D. Kumawat from HCM OTS Udaipur advocated for community mobilization, especially youth involvement through workshops and nature camps. Dr. Kamal Singh Rathore, pharmacy professor at BN University, and coach Kailash Paliwal also echoed the call for grassroots environmental activism.
Nikhil Mali offered a powerful reminder: “We are guests on this Earth, not its masters.”
Forest Cleanup: Action Beyond Words
Participants not only engaged in discussions but also cleared plastic waste and trash from the Myra forest area, a site often misused by picnic-goers. The act served as a symbolic and practical demonstration of Earth Day’s mission — to protect, not pollute.
The event ended with a collective pledge to preserve nature, respect cultural and ecological legacies, and advocate sustainable development.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
