Recent studies indicate that ancient Indian writings can significantly enhance our understanding of the country's geographical evolution. These timeless tales, poems, and songs may provide invaluable insights into the formation and persistence of extensive savannas and grasslands throughout the region.
Reevaluating Grassland History
Savannas and grasslands occupy nearly 10% of India and over one-third of the planet's terrestrial surface. For years, many scientists and decision-makers believed these open spaces were once dense forests that had been destroyed or degraded by human activities. This assumption has influenced conservation tactics, including extensive tree planting initiatives.
However, new findings propose an alternative narrative. Historical literary evidence suggests that tropical grasslands are not remnants of devastated forests but rather resilient ecosystems that have thrived independently. This distinction is crucial for determining the focus of reforestation projects.
Leveraging Literature as Scientific Insight
A study featured in the journal People and Nature, published by the British Ecological Society, explored plant references in historical texts from western India. The researchers aimed to reconstruct the types of vegetation that once flourished in the area.
"What stands out for me is the remarkable consistency over time," remarked Ashish Nerlekar, a study co-author from Michigan State University. "It's intriguing that narratives from centuries ago align so closely with today's environment, contrasting sharply with romanticized notions of the past landscape."
This idea arose from informal discussions among researchers from various disciplines. Digvijay Patil, a PhD candidate in archaeology at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research in Pune, observed frequent mentions of unique plants while analyzing Sanskrit and Marathi texts related to sacred sites. Nerlekar, a plant scientist, recognized many of these species as still prevalent in contemporary savannas.
Documenting Flora Through Folk Traditions
The research team delved into folk songs, poems, and myths composed or performed in Marathi, with some dating back to the 13th century. Much of this material remains outside modern databases, representing an underutilized reservoir of ecological knowledge.
Many of these works originate from Maharashtra, where approximately 37,485 square kilometers are currently designated as open grasslands--an area roughly two-thirds the size of Lake Michigan.
"These regions are often mischaracterized," noted Nerlekar, a postdoctoral fellow in MSU's Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Program.
Debunking the "Wasteland" Myth
In both public perception and official policies, savannas in India and beyond have often been labeled as "wastelands." They are frequently viewed as degraded forests and targeted for tree planting initiatives aimed at capturing carbon dioxide and mitigating climate change.
However, historical evidence reveals a different reality. The researchers identified 44 wild plant species referenced in ancient texts, with nearly two-thirds typical of savanna ecosystems.
One notable example is found in the epic poem "Adi Parva," estimated to date back to the 16th century. This text describes cowherders drawn to the "barren" and "thorny" Nira River valley due to its lush grass. Another account mentions a taraṭī tree, scientifically known as Capparis divaricata, growing from the grave of a 15th-century poet-saint at the pilgrimage site of Pandharpur.
The acacia tree, frequently mentioned by Cakradhara, appears multiple times. The team identified eight references to this thorny species, known as Vachellia leucophloea, which features feathery leaves, pale yellow bark, and white flowers.
"It's a quintessential tree in the region, and it was prevalent during that era as well," stated Nerlekar.
A Landscape with Deep Historical Roots
Together, these historical narratives imply that India's savannas have been present for at least 750 years, existing long before the widespread deforestation associated with British colonial rule.
Additional scientific evidence suggests an even older history. Fossilized pollen and remains of grass-grazing animals, such as hippos, indicate that savanna plants predominated the region tens of thousands of years ago, rather than dense forests.
The Significance of Savannas Today
Protecting savannas and grasslands is vital for numerous reasons, Nerlekar emphasized. Within India, these ecosystems harbor over 200 plant species unique to the region. Many have only recently been documented by scientists and face increasing threats from agricultural expansion and urban development.
"Much of the biodiversity within savannas holds sacred significance, adding cultural value to their ecological importance," Nerlekar remarked.
Additionally, savannas play a crucial role in carbon storage by absorbing carbon dioxide that would otherwise contribute to atmospheric pollution. Across Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America, they serve as grazing grounds for hundreds of millions of livestock, including cattle and sheep.
Approximately 20% of the global population relies on savannas and grasslands for their livelihoods. Researchers caution that these benefits may be jeopardized if climate solutions involve planting trees in areas where forests have never existed.
"These age-old narratives offer a rare perspective into the past, revealing that it was a savanna-dominated landscape, not a forested one," concluded Nerlekar.
This research received support from grants provided by Michigan State University and IISER Pune.