Harmonizing Dharma and Earth: The Relevance of Bhagavad Gita in Contemporary Indian Environmental Jurisprudence

Sanjeeta Avdhut Bhise, Dr. Sanjay Vasant Jadhav

Abstract: The research paper studies how the philosophical teachings of the Bhagavad Gita can be connected with Environmental Jurisprudence in India. Today, the world is facing serious environmental problems in the Anthropocene era, where human activities have greatly affected nature. Modern legal frameworks, which are primarily rooted in Western Anthropocentric traditions, often focus mainly on human interests and sometimes fail to address the deeper spiritual and ethical responsibility of humans have toward protecting the environment. As environmental crisis escalate worldwide, modern legal systems are gradually shifting from Anthropocentric (human-centered) approaches toward ecocentric (nature-centered) frameworks. This shift reflects the growing realization that environmental protection is essential not only for human survival but also for maintaining the balance of the natural world. The Indian judiciary has often referred to ancient Indian philosophy while developing ?Green Jurisprudence? under Article 21 (Right to Life) and Article 51A(g) (Fundamental Duty to protect and improve the natural environment) of the Constitution. This study examines important concepts from the Bhagavad Gita, such as Yajna (the cycle of reciprocal sacrifice), Lokasangraha (welfare of the world), and Prakriti (the divine nature of the material world) and explains how these ideas offer a moral and philosophical basis for modern environmental principles like the Public Trust Doctrine and Sustainable Development. In the philosophy of the Gita, Yajna symbolizes the principle of mutual co-operation and balance between human beings and nature, where every action should help maintain the natural order. Lokasangraha highlights the responsibility of individuals, particularly leaders and those in authority, to act for the greater good and welfare of society as whole. The concept of Prakriti recognizes nature as sacred and inter-connected with life, promoting respect and protection of the natural world. Through a qualitative analysis of important court judgements and Vedic ecological philosophy, this paper shows that the Bhagavad Gita is not only a religious text but also a source of ecological ethics of Eco-Dharma. The study suggests that incorporating such indigenous ethico-legal perspectives can help bridge the gap between statutory compliance and moral responsibility. This approach can support the development of a more balanced and culturally relevant environmental legal system in India. The relevance of the Bhagavad Gita in present day Indian environmental law can be understood through its teachings about moral leadership, societal duty and the close connection between human and nature. The ideas of Dharma (duty), Karma (responsible actions), Ahimsa (non-violence), Seva (selfless service), and Sarvalokahit (the welfare of all living beings) encourage people to act responsibly toward the environment. When integrated with modern concepts such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and environmental governance, they help encourage responsible decision-making and co-operation among different stakeholders for the protection of the environment.

Keywords: Environmental Jurisprudence, Bhagavad Gita, Eco-Dharma, Indian Constitution, Public Trust Doctrine, Sustainable Development, Green Jurisprudence, Article 21 of the Constitution, Article 51A(g) of the Constitution, Dharma, Karma, Ahimsa, Seva, Ahimsa, Sarvalokahit, Yajna, Lokasangraha, Corporate Social Responsibility, Anthropocentric Approach, Ecocentric Approach

How to Cite?: Sanjeeta Avdhut Bhise, Dr. Sanjay Vasant Jadhav, "Harmonizing Dharma and Earth: The Relevance of Bhagavad Gita in Contemporary Indian Environmental Jurisprudence", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1027-1031, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26513174156, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26513174156

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