In his upcoming book, ‘Speaking with Nature – The Origins of Indian Environmentalism’, Ramachandra Guha explores the importance and relevance of environmentalists in India. He challenges the common belief that environmental consciousness is a luxury for the wealthy — that the poor are ‘too poor to be green.’ Through deep research, Guha dismantles this narrative, uncovering a lesser-known history of global environmental movements beyond Europe and America.
The book profiles ten remarkable individuals who have extensively engaged with environmental issues, offering profound insights into the consequences of environmental degradation from an Indian perspective. These thinkers come from diverse intellectual and ideological backgrounds and include figures such as Rabindranath Tagore, Radhakamal Mukerjee, J.C. Kumarappa, Patrick Geddes, Albert and Gabrielle Howard, Mira, Verrier Elwin, K.M. Munshi, and M. Krishnan. Their writings touch on a wide range of topics, including wildlife, soil, water, and forests, as well as the effects of urbanization and industrialization.
Each of these personalities brings a unique perspective to environmental issues, leaving an impression on readers who may find some of their arguments more resonant than others. Together, they support Guha’s concept of ‘livelihood environmentalism,’ which contrasts with the ‘full-stomach environmentalism’ prevalent in wealthier parts of the world. These writers, activists, and scientists played pioneering roles in shaping global conversations about humanity’s relationship with nature and the steps necessary to preserve it.
The book also highlights India’s historical relationship with its natural resources and emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change today. Guha delves into the various shades of environmentalism and profiles individuals who approached nature through different lenses, including India’s first “Hindutva environmentalist.”
Published by HarperCollins India, ‘Speaking with Nature’ will be released on 16 October on SoftCover, ThePrint’s online platform for launching non-fiction books.
Ramachandra Guha, born and raised in the Himalayan foothills, studied in Delhi and Kolkata and has lived in Bengaluru for many years. His previous works include ‘The Unquiet Woods,’ a pioneering environmental history; ‘India After Gandhi,’ a landmark history of the Republic; and a two-volume biography of Mahatma Gandhi, each recognized by The New York Times as a Notable Book of the Year. His essays and books have been translated into more than twenty languages.
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