REVISITING THE IDEA OF VASUDHAIVA KUTUMBAKAM: AN ECOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This research paper examines the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, an ancient Indian philosophical precept as enlightened in the Maha Upanishad, in the light of environmental ethics. The Sanskrit phrase means ‘the world ought to be one family’. This simple phrase captures the idea of deep ecology and sustenance. One world means all sentient beings are considered to be a single entity, residing on a single planet. This principle emphasizes the significance of valuing diversity and encouraging harmony, peace, and cooperation among all cultures and traditions. This idea places a strong emphasis on the value of returning to nature and comes from a deep sense of unity and interconnectedness. The paper points out the claim that, in light of the current climate change crisis, humanity must come together and include diverse cultures and their corresponding knowledge systems in the discussion of sustainability.