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Centre for Excellence in Conservation Science
Royal Enclave,Srirampura,Jakkur Post
Bangalore-560064
Telephone: 080-23635555 (EPABX)
Fax : 080- 23530070
Watching Diwali festivity this season, I noticed how changes in the family
structure, increase in disposable income, lack of time and other reasons have
changed the way festivals are celebrated. Drawing parallels, the way religious
sites in KMTR function have also changed. What used to be quaint gatherings
have now grown, in some cases, to uncontrollable crowds leaving behind their
waste inside the forest which will probably remain there for eons. Most rituals
seem to be losing the essence of the festivals itself and appear to be just a
commercial venture. Yet, examples exist, which show how pilgrims and rituals
are still maintaining harmony with nature. This issue of Agasthya focuses on
religious sites in KMTR and offers insights on varied aspects. In addition, an
invited article has been featured for the first time in Agasthya. A new section,
‘Research Highlights’, has also been added to the existing sections of
experiences from the forest, event update and snippets from the field. The
update from the recent crisis at Vaagaikulam tank shows how researchers can
cross the barrier they set for themselves within the cozy walls of elitism and act!
Editorial Team
Editor: Allwin Jesudasan
Associate editor: Rajkamal Goswami
Editorial Review: R. Ganesan, M. Soubadra Devy, T. Ganesh
Design and presentation: Kiran Salegame
A S H O K A T R U S T F O R R E S E A R C H I N E C O L O G Y A N D T H E E
N V I R O N M E N T
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