OF POETRY OF EARTH

The contribution of Telugu poets in writings with environment as the central theme is commendable

- CHITTI ANNAPURNA

The uniqueness of India and its Indianness lies in its natural diversity. Therefore, ancient sages and saints made efforts to bind humans with nature. Since ancient times, poets have composed poems sitting in the lap of nature. In Telugu language, animals like snakes, spiders and elephants were shown crossing the boundaries of devotion. The epic Kalahastishwara Mahatmyam Kavya, written by Dhurjati, the court poet of Sri Krishnadevaraya, is one such example. Humans learnt the form of satvik bhakti from shri or kaala (snake) and hasti (elephant), which are deadly creatures.

Our ancestors said bathing in the river and sea is a sacred act. Bathing in the river and sea during special festivals in special seasons was called a virtuous act and their importance in life was propounded. They found a way to preserve the mountains which are full of stones, by establishing temples of gods and goddesses on them. Van mahotsav or vana bhojana—a celebration to lead the happiest moments in gardens or a place full of trees—is also an act to preserve and safeguard the trees. This concept was to preserve the forests and enjoy the delightful environment in the lap of nature.

Every creature of the forest, whether it is a tree, animal or bird, all were forest deities in Dhurjati’s view. Therefore, the ancient poet imagined the beauty of nature with his mind and through manifesting it he gave life to nature in his poetry. This is the history of the people of Telugu Nadu and their soft feelings towards nature.

But time started changing. The changes that have come in modern humans are the result of destruction of nature. Due to humans’ selfishness, they lead a life against nature. It has resulted in pollution exploding in different forms. Modern poets have depicted this misconduct of humans against nature.