‘Devanganam Charu Haritham’ – A Kerala Temple Green Initiative

On World Environment Day 2023, the Kerala Devaswom Department launched a remarkable campaign titled ‘Devanganam Charu Haritham’, meaning “beautiful greenery of temple premises.” This Kerala temple greenery initiative aims to rejuvenate nature around temples, ponds, and sacred groves (kavus).

This movement emphasizes both environmental conservation and spiritual harmony, encouraging participation from temple advisory committees and devotees across the state.

🌱 Key Highlights of the Project

Nakshatra Vanam – Tree planting based on birth stars

Kavu Samrakshanam – Protection of traditional sacred groves

Oushadavanam – Cultivation of medicinal herbs in temple compounds

🛕 Widespread Implementation Across Kerala

This program covers around 3,080 temples under the:

Travancore Devaswom Board

Cochin Devaswom Board

Malabar Devaswom Board

Guruvayur Devaswom Board

Koodalmanikyam Devaswom Board

At Koodalmanikyam Temple, special emphasis is given to planting Ashoka trees.

🌺 Common Trees and Plants Being Used:

Flowering plants: Nandyarvattam, Pavizhamalli, Chethi, Thechi, Arali, Chembarathi, Thulasi, Chembakam

Shade & worship trees: Arayal (Peepal), Ilanji, Aryaveppu (Neem), Devadaru, Mango, Chenthengu (Coconut)

♻️ A Greener Temple Culture

This Kerala temple greenery initiative is a model for how temples can become biodiversity hotspots, combining spiritual values with eco-conscious action.