Sanjhi as Embodied Knowledge: The Blend of Folk Ritual and Ecological Consciousness

Abstract

The Sanjhi ritual, a traditional folk practice predominantly observed in specific regions of Uttar Pradesh during the Navratri festival, offers a compelling perspective on the intersection of folk rituals, ecological awareness, and Indian indigenous knowledge systems. This Hinduritual is associated with young girls and women and revolves around the veneration of Goddess Sanjhi, who is regarded as an incarnation of either Goddess Durga or Goddess Parvati, contingent upon local customs. The celebration entails the daily creation of ephemeral images of Goddess Sanjhi using locally sourced, biodegradable materials such as cow dung, clay, leaves, flowers, and natural dyes. These practices exemplify a profound connection to the land and ecology, underscoring an ecological ethic that preludes contemporary environmental discourse. The research paper posits that Sanjhi transcends mere devotional or folk practice; it embodies a form of knowledge transmitted through generations via oral traditions, songs, and tangible creativity. It functions as a form of indigenous knowledge, wherein women’s interactions with nature, fertility, and community are ritualized and rendered visible. This study investigates how the Sanjhi ritual symbolizes the relationship between humans and the environment, emphasizing the relevance of reviving indigenous knowledge and fostering ecological awareness. It also examines how the Sanjhi ritual serves as a conduit for transmitting cultural wisdom and environmental consciousness across generations. The findings thus illustrate how the evolving nature of Sanjhi in contemporary contexts underscores its potential as a tool for environmental education and cultural preservation.