Chelmsford Hindu Society (CHS), guided by the eternal principles of Sanatan Dharma, is committed to supporting, encouraging, and adopting a sustainable way of life.

Rooted in a philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the sanctity of nature, our approach to tackling the ecological crisis is both spiritual and practical. Through sacred teachings and environmental stewardship, we seek to contribute to a sustainable future for our community.

1. Dharma: Environmental Responsibility

In Hinduism, Dharma refers to righteous living and moral duty. This includes the responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. Sanatan Dharma teaches that all forms of life are interconnected, and it is our duty to live in harmony with nature.

Shloka:
“धर्मेण हीनः पशुभिः समानः”
Translation:
“Without righteousness, humans are no better than animals.” (Manusmriti 2.12)

Action:
Chelmsford Hindu Society always encourages its members to participate in local environmental initiatives, including tree planting, wildlife conservation, and community clean-up events. We will actively promote reducing waste, conserving energy, and using sustainable resources within our temple and community spaces.

2. Pancha Mahabhutas: Reverence for Nature

The Pancha Mahabhutas (five great elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether) are considered sacred in Sanatan Dharma. Our scriptures teach us to respect and protect these elements as they are essential for sustaining life on earth.

Shloka:
“समुद्रवसने देवि पर्वतस्तनमंडले |
विष्णुपत्नि नमस्तुभ्यं पादस्पर्शं क्षमस्व मे ||”
Translation:
“O Goddess Earth, who is adorned with oceans, mountains, and forests, forgive me for touching you with my feet.” (Prithvi Sukta)

Action:
To honour the natural world, CHS always promotes sustainable practices within the community. This includes reducing plastic usage, conserving water, and minimizing the carbon footprint by adopting energy-efficient practices in our homes, places of worship, and gatherings. Special emphasis will be placed on using eco-friendly materials during festivals and events.

3. Ahimsa: Non-Violence Towards Nature

The principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) extends beyond human interactions to include all living beings and the environment. Non-violence in this context means reducing harm to the earth and its ecosystems by adopting eco-conscious lifestyles.

Shloka:
“अहिंसा परमॊ धर्मः”
Translation:
“Non-violence is the highest duty.”

Action:
CHS actively promotes plant-based diets and sustainable food choices within the community to reduce the ecological impact of food production. Since 2016,  CHS has been promoting vegetarianism by providing vegetarian meals in all its festivals and events to raise awareness about the environmental benefits of plant-based eating.

4. Rita: Cosmic Order and Sustainability

Rita is the cosmic order that governs both the universe and human society. It teaches us that harmony must be maintained between human actions and the natural world. Disturbing this balance can lead to ecological disasters, while living in accordance with Rita ensures sustainability.

Shloka:
“ऋतं च सत्यं चाभीद्धात् तपसो अध्यजायत |”
Translation:
“From the power of cosmic order (Rita) and truth, the universe is sustained.”

Action:
CHS always promotes sustainability in all aspects of our community life. This includes endorsing renewable energy sources, supporting local eco-friendly businesses, and encouraging members to adopt green technologies, such as solar panels and electric vehicles. CHS encourages usage of Bicycle, Walking and public transport to all its community members.

5. Yajna: Sacred Offerings and Environmental Purification

The practice of Yajna (sacred offerings) symbolizes the interconnectedness between humans and the environment. Offerings made during yajnas are intended to purify the air and restore balance to the ecosystem.

Shloka:
“इष्टान्भोगान्हि वो देवा दास्यन्ते यज्ञभाविताः |
तैर्दत्तानप्रदायैभ्यो यो भुङ्क्ते स्तेन एव सः ||”
Translation:
“The gods, nourished by sacrifice, will bestow upon you the desired necessities of life. But one who enjoys these gifts without offering back in return is a thief.” (Bhagavad Gita 3.12)

Action:
CHS organises eco-friendly rituals that honour the environment. We promote the use of organic and biodegradable materials during festivals and ceremonies, minimizing pollution. Additionally, environmental yajnas (tree-planting rituals, water conservation prayers, etc.) will be performed to raise awareness and spiritually contribute to sustainable environment.

6. Simple Living: Minimalism and Sustainable Consumption

Sanatan Dharma advocates simple living and high thinking, encouraging minimalism and sustainable consumption. By living modestly, we reduce waste and limit our impact on the environment.

Shloka:
“तेजः क्षमा धृतिः शौचमद्रोहो नातिमानिता |
भवन्ति संपदं दैवीमभिजातस्य भारत ||”
Translation:
“Simplicity, forgiveness, self-control, purity, and absence of ego are the qualities of one who is divine.” (Bhagavad Gita 16.3)

Action:
CHS promotes a culture of conscious consumption within the community. Members are encouraged to reduce materialism, reuse and recycle resources, and adopt a minimalist lifestyle. CHS will continue to organise workshops and seminars on reducing energy use, repurposing goods, and living with less.

7. Unity in Diversity: Community Action for the Environment

Hindu philosophy embraces the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “the world is one family.” This idea fosters a sense of collective responsibility for the well-being of the earth and all its inhabitants.

Shloka:
“अयं बन्धुरयं नेति गणना लघुचेतसाम् |
उदारचरितानां तु वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् ||”
Translation:
“The narrow-minded discriminate, saying ‘This is my relative, and that one is not.’ But for the broad-minded, the whole world is a family.”

Action:
CHS will work collaboratively with local groups, schools, and other faith communities in Chelmsford to organize environmental awareness campaigns, educational programs, and joint initiatives. We will support the local area by contributing to local reforestation projects, river clean-ups, and promoting green infrastructure development.

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Chelmsford Hindu Society, deeply rooted in the eternal teachings of Sanatan Dharma, is fully committed to tackling the climate and ecological challenges we face today. Guided by principles of Dharma, Ahimsa, and Rita, and inspired by our sacred texts, we aim to protect the environment and nurture a sustainable future for all. Through spiritual wisdom and practical action,

CHS is proud to support creating a greener, more harmonious world for generations to come.

Let us join hands in embracing these timeless principles and contribute to the well-being of Mother Earth.

If you have any questions or comment, do reach out to us.