International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Sustainable Consumption Through the Lens of Indian Tribal Wisdom

Ancient wisdom of India incorporates the concept of nature and life for a sustainable and harmonious life in the form of ‘yajnas.’ Yajnas are mostly accepted to be practiced for a good and great life in coexistence with nature. In the context of India, Pancha Maha Yajna includes five yajnas practiced in society for different purposes. The five Yajnas i.e., Brahma Yajna, Deva Yajna, Pitri Yajna, Bhuta Yajna and Manushya Yajna talks about learning and comprehending the scriptures by teacher, praying supernatural powers for his availability in people’s lives in the form of laws and functions, praying ancestors, sacrificing for the universe to balance ecology, and performing service for humanity in the society respectively. India has been the home of tribes for centuries living in harmonious relationship with the environment in their own tribal ways by practicing the diverse cultures and traditions. The replication of the tribal lifestyle to be followed for a better and sustainable future is the discussion of the hour in modern India because of climate change. This paper will seek to explore into the nuanced dynamics of sustainable consumption within tribal communities in India, offering a comprehensive perspective informed by multidisciplinary insights from tribal studies, folklore, anthropology, environmental studies, economics, and sociology integrating traditional tribal knowledge into contemporary sustainability initiatives. It argues for a collaborative approach that respects indigenous rights, fosters cultural preservation, and promotes ecological balance. By examining the principles of tribal consumption within the framework of sustainability, this study offers insights into fostering resilient and harmonious societies.