Imagine that you have a special place in your backyard where you love to play and enjoy nature. You might have a treehouse or a certain tree that you love to climb. In India, there are places like this where trees and plants are extra special and are protected. These places are called sacred groves.
A sacred grove is a small forest, often found near a temple or shrine, that is considered holy and protected by the local community. Inside these groves are trees, plants, and wildlife that are considered sacred or special.
People believe that these groves are the homes of gods and goddesses, and that they bring good luck and blessings to those who visit them. Because of this, people have been taking care of these groves for thousands of years.
Some of these groves have been protected for so long that they have become home to rare and endangered species of animals and plants. These groves provide a safe haven for these creatures and help to preserve them for future generations to enjoy.
Today, there are thousands of sacred groves in India, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. They are an important part of Indian culture and tradition, and are recognized as important components of India's natural and cultural heritage.