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Glimpses of Ancient Gardens
Embarking on a journey into the origins of gardens in ancient India, we find ourselves with sparse archaeological evidence but rich cultural narratives. The Harappa civilization, around 2500-2000 B.C., cherished trees with religious fervor, offering the first glimpse into the significance of nature. While archaeological findings are scarce, ancient Hindu sacred texts like the Ramayana and the Kama Sutra vividly describe the gardens of ancient India.
Tree Worship in Ancient Traditions
In the early days, the worship of trees was woven into the fabric of the Aryan tradition. The oral tradition and engravings on columns or seals captured the reverence for trees. The Kalpavriksha and the Chaityavriksha, mentioned in ancient texts, underscored the integral role of tree worship in the greater Aryan tradition. Many trees revered in those times continue to hold sacred status in India today.
Origin of Parks and Gardens
Around 1200 to 1000 B.C., as India experienced advanced town planning and irrigation systems, there was a gradual emergence of information about parks and gardens. However, it wasn't until the time of Lord Buddha (563 to 483 B.C.) that we find sufficient historical records about the development of parks and gardens. Legend has it that Lord Buddha was born in a park, marking a shift towards more emphasis on woodlands and parks rather than formal gardens during this period.
Evolution of Temple Gardens
The spaces around temples gained significance, evolving into sanctuaries for both congregation and sanctity. Whether open to the public or reserved for religious ceremonies within protective walls, temple gardens became places for meditation and contemplation. Buddhist temples, influenced by Lord Buddha's meditation in a park, often featured gardens within their enclosures.
References to sacred groves and temple gardens abound in ancient Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Tamil literature, highlighting their integral role in the cultural and spiritual landscape of ancient India.
Inception of Botanic Gardens
The concept of botanic gardens traces back to early Chinese emperors, Egyptian pharaohs, and Babylonian kings who maintained walled enclosures with diverse plant collections. The modern botanical garden, akin to modern science, took shape during the Renaissance. The Orto Botanico in Padua, Italy, stands as one of the oldest examples.
The Indian Botanical Gardens in Howrah (Kolkata) claim the title of the largest and oldest in South Asia. Established in 1787 A.D. by Lieutenant Colonel Robert Kyd, these expansive gardens along the Hooghly River span 273 acres.
Envisioned initially by Sir George King in 1782, the gardens boast over 12,000 trees and shrubs representing 1400 different species. Intricately linked to religion and mythology, trees like the Asoka (Saraca Asoca) have been considered sacred by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike.
Royal Love for Gardens
King Ashoka (270-250 B.C.) not only loved trees and parks but also issued royal orders to plant trees and develop gardens across his kingdom. These instructions, preserved in Rock Edicts, provide valuable insights into the locations and compositions of these ancient parks. Each park was envisioned to have water pools, creeper arbors, and shaded walks. The design was more informal than formal, focusing on shade, the cooling effects of water, and the preference for trees, shrubs, and creepers with pleasant fragrances and fruits.
Symbolic Trees in Indian Culture
Trees like the Asoka, banyan (Ficus benghalensis), and peepal or Sacred Fig (Ficus religiosa) have profound symbolic significance. The Asoka tree, associated with transformation and enlightenment, finds mentions in religious texts and epics like the Ramayana. Similarly, the banyan and peepal trees represent Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology.
Gardens in Chola and Solanki Kingdoms
Around the 10th and 11th centuries A.D., the Chola kings in South India showcased well-developed cities with planned gardens. The great South-Indian temples, architectural marvels, typically featured water tanks in their compounds with gardens attached, known as "Nandanvaruun" or heavenly gardens. Similarly, the Solanki Gardens near Ahmedabad, the capital of the Solanki Kings of Gujarat (961 A.D), were known for their well-designed pools, fountains, and diverse plant life, although the city now lies in ruins.
Al-Bīrūnī's Praise for Indian Gardens
In the 11th century A.D., Abū Rayḥān Al-Bīrūnī, an Iranian scholar and historian, marveled at Indian expertise in developing tanks and reservoirs. In his work "Tarikh Al-Hind" (History of India) and the "Chronology of Ancient Nations," he noted, "In this, Indians have attained a very high degree of art."
Diverse Gardens in India
Globally, gardens serve varied purposes, from spaces of peace to agricultural development. Ornamental gardening, an aesthetic expression, showcases beauty through art and nature, reflecting individual or cultural philosophies. In India, we witness the diversity of gardens, from home gardens to paradise gardens, temple gardens, and the intriguing world of botanic and zoological gardens.
