India's Leopard God, Waghoba, Aids Wildlife Conservation In The Country

Himanshi singh       Nov 12, 2022

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

          We, the Adivasis of Mumbai, worship Hirwa Dev or Green God who blesses our lives with natural resources that keep us alive. 

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

          The Adivasis of Mumbai are indigenous communities belonging to various tribes like Warlis, Kolis, Dubbas, and others. They have a deep-rooted connection with nature. 

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

          According to him, most leopard attacks on humans in Mumbai occur when people disrespect the forest rules. As immigrants from elsewhere encroach into forested land, 

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

        Bhoir also finds it unfortunate that news channels often portray stories of leopards entering human homes when, in reality, humans have invaded leopard territory. 

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

        This deep bonding with the forest and its leopards keeps Bhoir and his tribal community members alert. Whenever there is a threat to the forests of Mumbai 

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

       The worship of the Waghoba and other elements of nature is not limited to the Adivasis of Mumbai but is more widespread. A study published in Frontiers in Conservation Science in 2021 

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

       India's socio-economic scene is changing at a fast pace. Rapid urbanization is taking place all over the country. Integration of indigenous communities like Mumbai's Adivasis into mainstream society  

#Mumbai's Forest Gods And Forest People

       The bonding between people and nature needs to be rejuvenated and preserved before it is lost. He also believes that the engagement of local communities is vital to further conservation goals in India.  

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