Animals in India are worshipped in myriad ways: as deities, like the elephant (god Ganesha) and the monkey (god Hanuman); as avatars, like Vishnu’s fish, tortoise and boar forms; and as vahanas, or vehicles, of major deities-the swan, bull, lion and tiger. While some animals, like the snake, are worshipped out of fear, some birds, such as the crow, are associated with the abode of the dead, or the souls of ancestors, and the cow’s sanctity perhaps derives from its economic value. There are also hero-animals, such as the vanaras, and the totemic symbols of tribes later assimilated into Vedic Hinduism.
Sacred Animals of India draws on India’s ancient religions-Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism-to explore the customs and practices that led to the worship and protection of animals. This book is also a necessary reminder of the role animals play in earth’s biodiversity.
Imprint: India Penguin
Published: Nov/2026
ISBN: 9780143423201 (Paperback)
ISBN: 9789377301828 (Hardback)
Length : 288 Pages
MRP : ₹499.00
There is a close symbiotic relationship between Hinduism and Nature. The basis of Hindu culture is dharma or righteousness, incorporating duty, cosmic law and justice. Every person must act for the general welfare of the earth, humanity, all creation and all aspects of life. Dharma is meant for the well-being of all living creatures. The verses […]
