Mysuru: The Department of Archaeology, Museums, and Heritage will host a special lecture titled ‘An Analysis of Devara Kadugalu (Sacred Groves) of Kodagu’ on February 27 (Friday) at its auditorium located on the Dasara Exhibition Grounds.
The programme is scheduled to commence at 11 am and is open to students, researchers, history enthusiasts and members of the general public. Entry to the lecture is free.
Focus on Kodagu’s sacred groves
The lecture will explore the concept, ecological significance and cultural heritage of ‘Devara Kadugalu’ — sacred groves traditionally preserved by local communities in Kodagu district. These groves are considered ecologically sensitive spaces and are often associated with local deities, customs and rituals.
Over the years, sacred groves have attracted attention from scholars for their role in biodiversity conservation and their importance in sustaining traditional ecological knowledge systems. The session is expected to provide a detailed academic perspective on the historical and socio-economic aspects of these groves.
Lecture by noted academic
The lecture will be delivered by M G Chandrakanth, Director of the Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bengaluru. He will make a detailed presentation analysing the evolution, governance and conservation challenges of sacred groves in Kodagu.
According to a press release issued by the Deputy Director of the department, the session aims to create greater awareness about Karnataka’s lesser-known heritage assets and promote informed discussions on conservation.
Open invitation to public
Officials stated that the initiative is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to engage the public in heritage-related discussions and academic exchanges. Students pursuing history, archaeology, environmental studies and social sciences are expected to benefit from the lecture.
Interested participants may contact First Grade Assistant S. Shashidhara on 73490 57976 for further details.
The department has encouraged wide participation, emphasising the importance of preserving both tangible and intangible heritage linked to sacred landscapes such as Kodagu’s Devara Kadugalu.