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In India, as elsewhere in many parts of the world, a number of communities practise different forms of nature worship. One such significant tradition is that of providing protection to patches of forests dedicated to deities and/or ancestral spirits. These patches of forests are known as sacred groves. The tradition is very ancient and once was widespread. The estimated number of sacred groves in India is about two lakhs. Groves are rich heritage and play an important role in religious and socio-cultural life of the local people. These eco-systems have many threatened, endangered and rare plant and animal species. This book covers various cultural and ecological dimensions of sacred groves in India, and describes recent initiatives undertaken by various stakeholders to strengthen this multifarious institution.

This is the story of people’s lives and views on the Palestine-Israeli conflict in their own words as told to this author, a journalist who has specialised in the Middle East for over 15 years at the time of writing this book. Often sad, frequently angry, almost unbearably poignant, these testimonies from men, women and children alike speak of loss and hunger: loss of homes, loved ones, childhood freedoms; hunger for reconciliation, and for a land to call home. Uncovering a world where both sides live with the daily realities and personal consequences of conflict, this heartfelt cry for peace moves and enlightens in an unforgettable manner.

This coffee-table book is a visual tribute to the timeless glory of the Golden Temple with which the Sikh psyche is entwined. The photographs catch the spirit of aura, splendour of the temple and the devotion of the pilgrims. The accompanying text succinctly explains the basic principles, holy practices and the meaning of rituals. Each chapter is aptly initiated by translations of “shabads” from Sri Guru Granth Sahib by S.Kartar Singh Duggal. For the uninitiated it is a an incisive guide halting at significant milestones like its history, art and architecture, and its unique concept of “seva” and “langar”. Overall the book offers valuable insight into what makes the Golden Temple occupy a high pedestal and stand tall amidst other historic “gurudwaras”.

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