A Relationship Between Plants and Their Hindu and Buddha Cultures: An Analysis Ficus Religiosa (Pipal)

Abstract

Ficus religiosa or the sacred fig is a common tree found in the South Asian area having a cultural value. This study examines the environmental and cultural value of Ficus religiosa in the context of Nepal and Hindu and Buddha religious culture. This tree is found in the tropical, subtropical, and temperate region of Nepal (80 m–1600 m elevation range). Physically this species reaches a height of up to 30 m in Nepal. As per the study this tree has a life span of 1500 years. The longevity of the trees have the proof of various changes that occur in the earth system. Culturally this species is taken as one of the symbols of the Hindu mythical ‘Bishnu’ who is the people saver god in Hindu myth. Gautam Buddha got the knowledge sitting below the Ficus religiosa tree. So, Hindus and Buddhists both give more importance to this tree. Beside that scientific proof is there about having the highest rate of oxygen release during the daytime. This study gives the detail of the mythical aspects and scientific approach of the Ficus religiosa in Nepal, Hindu and Buddha culture.