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Cultural Forests GUJARAT FOREST DEPARTMENT Sanskritik Van (A Unique System of Celebrang Van Mahotsav)

Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

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Page 1: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

Cultural Forests

GUJARAT FOREST DEPARTMENT

Sanskritik Van(A Unique System of Celebrating Van Mahotsav)

Page 2: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

Sanskritik VanIndian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees. For thousands of years, Indian culture has accorded a position of great importance to trees. In ancient times, our forefathers lived in co-existence of nature. They have recognized the high importance of plants for health, wealth and prosperity of human life, so they were worshiping trees. At present, most of our religious festivals include worship of trees.

People have great regards for astrology and Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is universally known that these medicines are prepared from fruits, flowers, barks, leaves and roots of trees and herbs. Some trees are also believed to have positive effects on human life, besides warding off evil influences.

Modern scientific thought may be disinclined to believe such influences of these plants. Nevertheless, the fact remains that most of these are versatile trees and their plantation not only contributes towards the environment improvement but also appeals to the sentiments of the people who still respect and follow the age-old traditions and rituals of India.

Such plantations, which are planned according to the various Indian traditions, have collectively come to be known as Sanskritik Van and are known by the traditions they follow. The first six pages of the booklet described the various components of “Sanskritik Van” and the subsequent pages detail the various Sanskritik Vans created during the past fourteen years.

Page 3: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

1. Navgraha Van

2. Nakshatra Van

Indian astrology claims a definite correlation between plants and Navagrahas - the 8 planets and the Sun at the centre. These planets are supposed to influence different organs in the body either in positive or negative manner and may result in diseases due to evil effects. Different plants have been prescribed for usage to overcome the ailments. Such plants are thus associated with the planets and are believed to have medicinal properties for treating the diseases. A Navgraha Van would thus typically include plants associated with each of the navgrahas, viz.

1. Budh Achyranthes aspera (Chichida) 2. Shukra Ficus glomerata (Gular)3. Chandra Butea monosperma (Palas) 4. Guru Ficus religiosa (Pipal)5. Surya Calotropis procera (Aak) 6. Mangal Acacia catechu (Khair)7. Ketu Saccharum spontaneum (Darbhe) 8. Shani Acacia ferruginea (Shami)9. Rahu Cynodon dactylon (Doob)

Constellations are groups of stars which appear to be fixed in the sky. The Hindu Panchanga assigns a separate tree for each of the 27 constellations (Nakshatras) through which the Sun passes. It is believed that celestial bodies like the Sun and the Moon exert different influences on human beings when they are transiting through these 27 constellations. It is also believed that such effects can be moderated or enhanced by planting and worshipping trees assigned to each constellation. This collection of trees planted in the correct order constitutes a Nakshatra Van.

Page 4: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

1. Ashwini Strychnos nuxvomica 2. Bharni Emblica officinalis3. Kritika Ficus glomerata 4. Rohini Syzygium cumini5. Mrigshira Acacia catechu 6. Ardra Aquilaria agalocha7. Punarvasu Dendrocalamus strictus 8. Pushya Ficus religiosa9. Ashlesha Mesua ferrea 10. Magha Ficus benghalensis11. Purva Falguni Butea monosperma 12. Uttara Falguni Ficus rumphii13. Hasta Jasminium auriculatum 14. Chitra Aegle marmelos15. Swati Terminalia arjuna 16. Vishakha Mesua ferrea17. Anuradha Mesua ferrea 18. Jyestha Bombax ceiba19. Moola Vateria indica 20. Poorvashada Calamus spp.21. Uttarashada Artocarpus heterophyllus 22. Shravana Calotropis gigantea23. Dhanishtha Prosopis spicigera 24. Saiabhisha Anthocephalus cadamba25. Poorva Bhadrapada Mangifera indica 26. Uttara Bhadrapada Azadirachta indica27. Revati Madhuca latifolia

3. Rashi Van

The 27 constellations are further grouped into 12 Zodiac signs. Astrology groups human beings into these Zodiacs. The Zodiacs play a vital role in the lives of human beings and any astrological prediction starts from the zodiac sign of a person. Indian Astrology has assigned specific trees for specific zodiac signs.

Page 5: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

4. Panchvati

5. Tirthankar Van

A group of five holy trees, namely, Vad (Ficus benghalensis), Pipal (Ficus religiosa), Bilva or Billi (Aegle marmelos), Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Ashok (Saraca indica) is called Panchvati. The numbers of the trees are specified: Vad (4), Pipal (4), Ashok (25), Bilva (4) and Amla (2) for creating Panchvati. Vad gives shade, Pipal produces vast amounts of oxygen, Bilva is offered to Shiva, Amla has significant medicinal properties and Ashok drives away sorrows. It is, therefore, believed that Panchvati is good for overall well-being of the mankind.

The 24 Tirthankars of Jainism were enlightened with eternal knowledge under various trees. These trees are known as “Kevali Vriksha”. It is believed that planting of these trees brings blessings of the Tirthankaras. The design of this Van is based on the ‘Kalpa Vriksha” yantra, where the trees associated with the Tirthankars are planted.

1. Sri Rushabhdev Swami Ficus benghalensis2. Sri Ajitnath Swami Alstonia scholaris3. Sri Sambhavnath Swami Shorea robusta4. Sri Abhinandan Swami Buchanania lanzan5. Sri Sumatinath Swami Callicarpa macrophylla6. Sri Padmaprabha Swami Ficus benghalensis7. Sri Suparshvanath Swami Albizia lebbeck8. Sri Chandraprabh Swami Calophyllum inophyllum9. Sri Suvidhinath Swami Aegle marmelos

Page 6: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

10. Sri Shitalnath Swami Ficus lacor11. Sri Sreyanshnath Swami Saraca indica12. Sri Vasupujya Swami Symplocos racemosa13. Sri Vimalnath Swami Syzygium cumini14. Sri Anantnath Swami Saraca indica15. Sri Dharmnath Swami Butea monosperma16. Sri Shantinath Swami Cedrus deodara17. Sri Kunthunath Swami Symplocos racemosa18. Sri Arnath Swami Mangifera indica19. Sri Mallinath Swami Saraca indica20. Sri Munisuvrat Swami Michelia champaca21. Sri Naminath Swami Mimusops elengi22. Sri Neminath Swami Salix caprea23. Sri Parshvanath Swami Woodfordia fruticosa24. Sri Mahavir Swami Shorea robusta

In the Indian mythology, according to Sapta Brahamana, the seven stars in the constellation Ursa Major, are associated with the seven major Indian saints and the constellation is known as Saptarshi (the seven rishis) - Kashyap, Atri, Bhardwaj, Jamdagni, Vishwamitra, Vashistha and Gautama. The trees identified with these seven saints constitute the Saptarshi Van. These are Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Sesbania grandiflora (Agastya), Achyranthes aspera (Chidchida), Cynodon dactylon (Doob), Aegle marmelos (Bilva), Prosopis cineraria (Shami), and Datura metel (Dhatura) respectively.

6. Saptarshi Van

Page 7: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

7. Shriparni Van

8. Arogya Van (Charak Van)

In Hindu mythology, the goddess Laxmi resides in Shriparni (Gmelina arborea) - a common tree found throughout India. It is believed that this tree creates a divine environment. Therefore, Laxmi resides in such a place with Lord Vishnu bringing in peace, happiness and prosperity for the worshippers and the people who raise such trees.

A number of medicinal plants are prescribed by the ancient scriptures for treating different ailments affecting different organs in the human body. Arogya Van or Charak Van is a representation of these medicinal plants. Some of the important medicinal plants are: Brahmi (Centella asiatica), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Harde (Terminalia chebula), Baheda (Terminalia belluca), Kariatu (Andrographis echioides), Satavari (Asparagus dumosus), Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia sepentina), etc.

Page 8: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

Objectives of establishing Sanskritic Vans or Cultural Forests

♦ To increase active participation of the people for Increasing tree cover.

♦ To create awareness among people about religious & medicinal plants.

♦ To improve bio-diversity & environment.

♦ To develop cultural sites.

♦ To generate employment.

♦ To make people acquainted with our ancient culture.

♦ To connect people with tree plantation & protection

♦ To strengthen our cultural & traditional values for protecting trees.

Page 9: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

The Gujarat Initiative

In a major initiative to boost tree plantation and improve the ecology of the State, the Government of Gujarat has embarked upon an ambitious drive since the year 2004. This initiative not only aims at tree plantation but, more importantly, at involving the people of Gujarat by introducing them to different plants and trees through various types of Sanskritik Vans discussed earlier, and through them to the ancient Indian traditions both mythological and medicinal. The Sanskritic Vans are established at 16 different sites up to year 2017.

It has been decided to celebrate 69th State level Van Mahotsav at Rudramata Dam, Ta. Bhuj, Dist.: Kutch, during year 2018. The Sanskritic Van named ‘‘RAKSHAK VAN’’will be opened to the people by Hon’ble Chief Minister, during this celebration.

The series of Sankritik Vans formed in Gujarat, as a part of State Level Van Mahotsav celebration, are described in this booklet.

Page 10: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 11: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

In 2004, with the inspiration of Mr. Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat State, this idea was conceived at Gandhinagar Van Mahotsav and executed in the shape of the Punit Van. The Punit Van is a synthesis of Panchvati, Nakshatra Van, Rashi Van, Navgraha Van, and Arogya (Charak) Van. A Bilva Van in the shape of a Shivling has also been included. The Punit Van is, however, not merely a botanical collection; it is a modern park with all the amenities for people of every age. It has a joggers’ track, an amphitheatre, a resting place (van kutir), and a fountain besides the usual civic amenities. On the whole, this Punit Van is integration of ancient culture and faith with plantation of trees, making it a unique centre. It is also a crucial hub of tourism for Gandhinagar. Over a period, this site turned a tourist cum entertainment park. The area of Punit Van is 6 ha.

The Punit Van was inaugurated on 06-07-2004 by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat State and was subsequently opened to public.

1. “Punit Van” at Gandhinagar

Page 12: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

With inspiration from Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the year 2005, an innovative approach, first time in the history of Van Mahotsav in Gujarat was adopted to deviate from the practice of holding the Van Mahotsav at Gandhinagar, the State Capital. The emphasis is to organize the Van Mahotsav functions at different Districts in the State to involve more and more people in tree planting. The year also witnessed the establishment of the Mangalya Van at Ambaji located 179 kms from Ahmedabad on the Arasur hill in the Aravali Range in Banaskantha district. More than 60 lakhs pilgrims visit Ambaji every year. It is one of the 64 Shakthipiths, where pieces of the body of Sathi, Shiva’s consort fell. The Mangalya Van has Navgraha Van, Rashi Van, Om Vatika and water pond in an area of 3.5 ha. The most interesting feature of the Mangalya Van is the Nav Dampati Van - plantation of trees carried out exclusively by 501 newly-weds in the traditional Gujarati attire on 17th July 2005. The “Om Vatika” is a gigantic created with differently coloured foliage plants. The usual amenities for people are also available.

After eight years since its establishment, the site turned an important tourist spot in Gujarat. A large number of people visit the site and learn about our tradition of conserving trees. Mangalya Van was opened to public during 56th Van Mahotsav celebration on 17-07-2005.

2. “Mangalya Van” at Ambaji

Page 13: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 14: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 15: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

Taranga (Taranga Tirtha) is a Jain pilgrimage center, 120 kms from Ahmedabad, in Mehsana district of Gujarat, where an exquisite temple was built by the Solanki dynasty king Kumarpal in 1121 AD. Old temple of lord Ajitnathaji is a heritage site. It has excellent carving in architecture. Lakhs of pilgrims visit this place every year. Thus, Taranga assumes special importance as a holy pilgrimage centre and a tourist centre. Keeping in view the significance of the centre for the followers of Jainism, a Tirthankar Van was set up in the year 2006. This ‘Van’ is planned in the typical design of Kalpa Vruksha Yantra. The Tirthankar Van also has Nakshatra Van, Navgraha Van, Rashi Van and Sriparni Van.

Taranga hill is located in the western end of the Aravallis and it is south-west of Sabarmati. The rocky hills covered by Anogeissus forest form a hilly landscape. It is also the site for a Nature Education Camp. Tirthankar Van add educational value to the site. Area of Tirthankar Van is 5.4 ha.

Tirthankar Van was opened to public by the Hon’ble Chief Minister during 57th Van Mahotsav celebration on 13-07-2006.

3. “Tirthankar Van” at Taranga

Page 16: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

The temple of Somnath is one of the oldest holy places in India as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva. It is situated on the western coast of India at Somnath of Junagadh District in Gujarat State. More than 50 lakhs tourists are visiting every year. The year 2007 saw the establishment of the Harihar Van at Somnath. A number of new ideas have been included in the Harihar Van at Somnath, e.g. Panch Valkal Van, Shiva Panchayatan Van, Hari Shankari Van, Saptarshi Van, Rudraksha Van, Jyotirlinga Van, Golok Dham Van and Harihar Van. With experience and growing confidence, the people of Gujarat are confident of transforming their state into a model of ecological restoration in consonance with its overall development. Area of Harihar Van is 1.6 ha.

Harihar Van is at sea coast. Although it is small Sanskritik Van but attract tourists due to its location near Somnath temple. This cultural forest was opened to public on 23-07-2007 during the 58th State Level Van Mahotsav.

4. “Harihar Van” at Somnath

Page 17: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 18: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
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Bhakti Van was developed in the year 2008, as a part of 59th Van Mahotsav celebration. It was set up in the foothills of Chotila in Surendranagar District, on National Highway No. 8. It is 170 kms away from Ahmedabad. The famous temple of “Chamunda Mataji” is located here. More than 40 lakhs pilgrims visit this place every year. The area is devided in to three parts (1) Tulsi Kund (2) Bhakti Van (3) Punit Van. One seeding distribution centre, Van kutir and fountain has been established here. Ayurvedic species are raised in reference to Nirogi Bal Varsh (Healthy Child Year).

At Chotila, it is now important site for tourists. Area of Bhakti Van is 5.8 ha. Bhakti Van was opened to public during 59th State Level Van Mahotsav celebration on 18-07-2008.

5. “Bhakti Van” at Chotila

Page 20: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

60th Van Mahotsav was celebrated at “SHAMLAJI” in Sabarkantha District of Gujarat State. Shamlaji is situated on National Highway No.8 and 127 kms away from Ahmedabad. The famous temple of “Lord Vishnu” is located here. More than 30 Lakhs of tourists visit Shamlaji every year.

The site is located between two hill series having coppice forest cover. The forest at both site of the Shyamal Van add aesthetic value to the site. People visiting Shamalji temple do not miss to visit Shyamal Van.

Main entrance with carving, Dashavatar Van, Nakshtra Van, Rashi Van, Dhanvantari Van, Dev Van, Smruti Van and Grahvatika are established. Fountain, Lawn, Play ground for children, Van Kutir (rest hut), Agro Forestry Plot, Modern nursery, Bamboo plantation, Interpretation centre, Tree museum are the highlights of the site. Area of Shyamal Van is 6.3 ha.

Shyamal Van was opened to public by the Hon’ble Chief Minister during Van Mahotsav celebration on 18-07-2009.

6. “Shyamal Van” at Shamlaji

Page 21: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
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Page 23: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

Palitana, a known religious site of Jains, is visited by thousands of people from India and abroad. The State Government decided to celebrate 61st Van Mahotsav in 2010 by creating Pawak Van at Palitana by planting trees having importance in the Jain religion. Pawak Van was established and opened to the people in a function which was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Narendra Modi while celebrating State Level Van Mahotsav. The objective of the Pawak Van is to develop a tourist spot where people can learn about our tradition and culture for preserving and protecting trees. An area of 7.4 ha was fenced on Garjiya Road to established a wonderful plantation where people enjoy while learning about the importance of trees. In this area, Amrit Mahotsav Van, Vihang Vatika, Rayan Van, Damara Vatika, Arogya Van, Sushrut Van, Tirthankar Van, Rashi Van, Nakshatra Van, Shetrunjay Van, Lotus pond, garden and children play area have been created to attract visitors. A total of 95 species of trees/plants have been planted in the Pawak Van. Vad, Pipal, Pipado, Umaro, Rayan, Borsalli, Bel or Billi, Kadaya, Khati amli, Peltroforum, Garmado or Amaltas, Gugad, Kalam, Rukhado, Mahudo, Sisso, Neem, Bamboo etc have been planted in the Pawak Van. Pawak Van was opened to public on 30-07-2010.

A large number of people - about 45,000 participated in a function in which Pawak Van was opened to people by planting seedlings by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Forest Minister and other dignitaries.

7. “Pawak Van” at Palitana

Page 24: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

“Virasat Van” is established in 6.50 ha. of areas at Jepura-Pavagadh, Dist.: Panchmahals during State Level Van Mahotsav celebration, in the year 2011. It is a famous religious site of “Mahakali Mataji”. Pavagadh - Champaner is important site with a historical, spiritual, archaeological, geological point of view. UNESCO has declared this site as a “World Heritage Site ” in the year 2004. In the background of this fact, it was decided to establish Sanskritik Van at this place.

To involve more & more people with tree plantation, this Sanskritik Van has been divided in to 7 themes - (1) Anand Van (2) Arogya Van (3) Aradhya Van (4) Sanskritik Van (5) Aajivika Van (6) Nisarg Van (7) Jaivik Van. Besides this, attractive entrance, bridges, tanks, fountain, van kutir, van kedi, play ground for children, grass plot, cafeteria etc... are the highlights of this site. A large number of tourists visit this cultural forests.

Virasat Van was opened to public by Hon’ble Chief Minister during 62nd Van Mahotsav celebration on 31-7-2011.

8. “Virasat Van” at Pavagadh

Page 25: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
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‘Jaliawaal Baug Massacre’ in Punjab has been written in golden letters in the history of independence of our country. But rarely anybody knows that earlier than this, people more than Jaliawala had sacrificed their life at Mangadh, 25 km from Santrampur at Rajasthan border. As per the history of the site, the local “Bhil People” fought against the injustice-tyranny of British Government, on 17th November 1913 under the leadership of Shri Guri Govind. In this war over 1500 Men, Women & Children sacrificed their lives. As a tribute to “Martyrs” of this historical incident, the Gujarat Forest Department has established “Govind Guru Smrutivan” at Mangadh Hill. ‘Govind Guru Smrutivan’ has been created in order to pay homage to Shri Govind Guru and his tribal disciples who laid their life on this pious spot.

In order to connect the people with tree raising, five thematic sections have been created in this Sanskritic Van and they are- (1) Shahid Van, (2) Rashi Van, (3) Nakshatra Van, (4) Bilawa Van and (5) Tulsi Van. Interpretation centre and other facilities have been created at the site in an area of about 5.0 ha. After establishment of the cultural forest, thousands of people from Gujarat, Rajasthan and also from Madhya Pradesh started visiting the site every day.

Govind Guru Smrutivan was opened to public by the Hon’ble Chief Minister during Van Mahotsav celebration on 30-07-2012.

9. “Govind Guru Smrutivan” at Mangadh

Page 28: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

10. “Nagesh Van” - Nageshwar (Dwarka)

Nageswar, one of the twelve Jyotirligas of Lord shiva is

situated on western part of India in Devbhoomi Dwarka

district of Gujarat. 64th Van Mahotsavawas Celebrated

in Nageshwar in year 2013. Nageshwar is situated be-

tween the Dwarika – Karma Bhoomi of Lord Krishna and

Nageshwar – HoliJyotirliga. More than 30 Lakhs pilgrims

and tourists are visiting these places every year. Area of

“Nagesh Van” is 6.0 Ha.

The Nagesh Van has Navgrah Van, Nakshatra Van, Rashi

Van, Panchavati Van, Charak Van, Gugal Van, Tulsi Van,

Bili Van, Vad – Pipalvatika, Palm groves. Moreover

“Daruka Van” is establish at a place were Lord Krishna

killed the Darukarakshash.

Jamun , Arjun sadad, Bad, pipal and other tree species

are planted on the bund of Man Sarovar for beautifica-

tion.

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11. “Shakti Van” - Kagvad (Jetpur)

65th Van Mahotsava was celebrated at Khodaldham – Kagvad of Jetpurtaluka in Rajkot district. “Shakti Van” was established on 30-7-2014. during this celebration. 83,700 plants having medic-inal, cultural, esthetic and astrological value were planted in 7.5 ha area. Khodaldham having temple of Devi Khodal is established recently, which is 70 km from Rajkot and 13 cm from industrial city Jetpur . “Shakti Van” has attractive entrance gate which is a symbol of Shakti. Kamal kund, model of “Savaj” (Lion) pride of Gujarat, water fall, Khodaldharoeyecatinglake, mural of lady which gives message “NarituNarayani”, Vishawayush van which gives information regarding van aushadhi, tree model which shows five different form of Shakti. Panchavati, Kadamkunj, Navgrah van, Chan-danvatika, Ashok vatika, Bilva van, Naksharatra van, Rashi van, Bamboo groves, Shriparni van and interpretation centre giving information regarding environment are main attraction of Shakti van. 1111 plants were planted by young girls and se-nior citizens which is a very good example of people awareness and people participation.

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12. “Janki Van” - Vansada

In the year 2015, the 66th state level vanmahotsava was celebrated on 02/08/2015 at Bhinar of Vansda taluka in Navsari district.

Janki van is established in natural scenic part of south Gu-jarat have 9.64 ha. Gauchar land and 6.0 ha reserve for-est, total 15.64 ha land.

Chandan van, Navgrah van, Amra van, Sinduri van, Panchavati van, Ashok vatika van, Devfal van, Nakshatra van, Rashi van, Ramayan van, bilivan, Interpretation cen-ter, Tribal haat, Balvatika and Cafeteria are part of this cul-tural van.

The main attractions of Janki van are,

1. Mural of different musical instruments of tribal.

2. Mural of Adimanav.

3. Nari Shakti sculpture.

4. Mural of goddess Unai.

5. Different products of Bamboo.

6. ValmikiKutir.

7. Gazebo.

8. Cafeteria and entrance gate.

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13. “Mahisagar Van” - Anand

67th state level Van Mahotsava was celebrated on

24/09/2016 at Vaherakhadi of Anand district.

Mahisagar van is established in 6.0 ha having

Rashi van, Nakshatra van, Jaivik van, Chandan van,

Nariyeli van, Kadamb van, Navgrah van. Total 1,06,292

plants were planted in this cultural van.

The main attraction of mahisagar van are,

1. Statue of SardarVallabhbhai Patel.

2. Mural wall.

3. Crocodile sculpture.

4. Gazebo.

5. Saras crane sculpture.

6. Bank of holy river Mahisagar.

Page 36: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

14. “Aamra Van” - Valsad

Photo : Prafull Bhavsar

State level 67th Van Mahotsava was celebrated on 30/07/2016. at Balchondi of Kaprada tehsil in Valsad district.

Aamra van is established in 5.0 ha area having Rashi van, Nakshatra van, Navgrah van, Panchavati van, Aarogya van, Aamra van. Total 1,62,541 plants were planted.

The main attraction of this Aamra van is, 1. Scientific demonstration of Mango farming.2. Detailed information of Mango.3. Van kutir4. Nakshatra van5. Navgrah van6. Aarogya van 7. Ancient lord Shiva temple.

Page 37: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 38: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 39: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

15. “Ekta Van” - Surat

Ekta van was establish on 04/08/2016 at Mota village

of Bardoli tehsil in Surat district. Ekta van established

in area of 7.0 ha having Rashi van, Nakshatra van,

Panchavati van, Amar van, Koth van, Rayan van,

Chandan van, Setur van, Nilgiri van, Ayurvedic van,

Sindoori van, Kadam van etc.

The main attraction of Ekta van are,

1. Statue of SardarVallabhbhai Patel and Ekta pillar.

2. Water Fountain.

3. Van kutir.

4. Mediational van.

5. Playing area for children.

6. Garden having different type of flowers.

7. Exercise equipments.

Page 40: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

16. “Shahid Van” - Jamnagar

67th Van Mahotsavaa was celebrated on 24/08/2016 at

Bhuchar Mori of Dhrol tehsil in Jamnagar district.

Shahid Van is established in 10.0 ha area, having Rashi

van, Nakshatra van, Navgrah van, Bili van,

Panchavati van, Tulsi van, Vadvatika, Halar van, Sorath

van, Zalawad van, Gohilvad van, Aajivika van, Aarogya

van. Total 1,03,000 plants were panted in this van.

The main attraction of Shahid van are,

1. Van Devi Mural

2. Statue of Shahid Jam Ajaji.

3. Colouring Fountain.

4. Garden.

5. Van kutir.

6. Picnic house.

Page 41: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 42: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees
Page 43: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

17. “Viranjali Van” - Paal

In the year 2017, 68th State lavel Van Mahotsava was

celebrated at Paal of Vijaynagar Taluka in Sabarkantha

District and estalished ‘‘Viranjali Van’’ on 16/07/2017.

Viranjali Van devloped in 6.00 ha. area. The prime

altreactions of Viranjali Van are Nakshatra van, Rashi

van, Panchavati van, Dev van, Ayurvedic van, Aajivika

van, Navgrah van, Rajwadi Entrance gate, Statue of

Motilal Tejawat, Bhul-Bhulaiya, Laxmi Kund, Interpre-

tation Centre, Gazebo, Children’s Play Ground, Amphi

theatere, Water fall, Kranti Torch, Fountain, View point,

Watch Tower, Mural Wall, Birds feeding Tower, Models

of Tiger, Dinosaur, Hyppopotamus, Birds, Lawn Gan-

den, Hanging Tunnel, 3-D spectacle etc. Total 1,03,000

plants has been planted.

Page 44: Sanskritik Van - forests.gujarat.gov.in · Sanskritik Van Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings and trees

Punit Van Bhakti Van

Govind Guru Smrutivan

Nagesh Van Shakti Van Janki Van

Shyamal Van Pawak Van Virasat Van

Mangalya Van Tirthankar Van Harihar Van

Mahisagar Van

Aamra Van Ekta Van Shahid Van

Forest Department, Gujarat StateE-mail : [email protected], [email protected]

Viranjali Van