Synthesis of Biocentric and Ecocentric Sacred Ecology: Nature-nurture Relation in Keralam’s Sacred Groves

The purpose of the study is to explore the human-nature relationship entrenched inherently in the socio-cultural and ecological lifeworld of Keralam’s sacred groves ( Kavu ). The study aims to evaluate how a harmonious human-nature relationship is intrinsically based on the synthesis of biocentric and eco-centric sacred ecology within the Kavu. Employing ethnography, data is collected through participant observation, oral narratives, and unstructured interviews across four sacred groves: Mannarasala , Iringole Kavu , Neeliyar Kottam , and Kammadam . The analytical framework is founded on Clifford Geertz’s ‘Thick Description’ to contextually interpret the symbolic practices, ritual performances, and socio-ecological interactions in the sacred groves. The findings of the study reveal four interrelated dimensions of the synthesis of biocentrism and eco-centrism within the sacred groves: (a) The Matriarch and the Serpents ( Mannarasala) , (b) incarnation of Goddess in Kavu , (c) Divine protection of Subaltern in Neeliyar Kottam , and (d) Performance as Conservation ( Kammadam ). Sacred groves maintain a synthesis of biocentric and ecocentric ethics and values embedded in the socio-cultural and religious life of the communities living within the Kavu.