Trees for Memories™

Why Trees?

Bodhgaya is revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike for its sacred importance. It is said that praying for your ancestors in Gaya can provide them deliverance from the cycle of life and death, known as ‘Moksha.' The city was also the location of Lord Buddha's enlightenment.

The 15-day long Pitru Paksha Mela (20th September to 5th October) during the Hindu month of Shradh is also held in Bodhgaya, Bihar. For Hindus throughout the country, the occasion is extremely important, and it is thought that paying respect to ancestors becomes much more sacred and meaningful if done at this time. In addition to worshipping, Daan is one of the significant aspects of Pitru Paksha Puja. People bring food and other offerings to their ancestors, as well as charitable contributions.

Trees not only protect the environment but also give positive energy. Various trees are linked with Gods and Goddesses in Hinduism in one form or another. Offering pind daan, tarpan, and a Brahmin feast during Shradh or Pitru Paksha is said to help one seek blessings from their ancestors.

The project is introduced to give individuals an opportunity to plant trees in memory of the departed by paying homage to them in this sacred city. Individuals can now plant trees for those who have passed away as a part of Pitrupaksh, to seek blessings through this endeavor. Planting trees is a wonderful way to honor our forefathers, as well as a hopeful method to ensure that future generations will be able to see a better and healthier environment.

Tree Species

Lemon (Citrus limon), Teak (Tectona grandis), Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo), Jamun ( Syzygium cumini L.), Mango (Mangifera indica) and Jack Fruit (Artocarpus heteroplyllus).

Social Impact

The Art of Living Center, founded by one of the most revered humanitarian and spiritual leaders of India, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is an epicenter of wisdom, salvation, and inner peace. People from distant corners of the world visit this center to achieve peace and mindfulness through yoga and meditation.
Saplings of mango, jamun, lemon, jackfruit, neem, and other wellness-related species are being planted on the premises of this center. Trees and greener environments are strongly linked to reduced negative thoughts, reduced symptoms of depression, better-reported moods, and increased life satisfaction (Berman et al., 2012; Bratman, Hamilton, Hahn, Daily, & Gross, 2015; Li, Deal, Zhou, Slavenas, & Sullivan, 2018; Lohr & Pearson-Mims, 2006; Mayer, Frantz, Bruehlman-Senecal, & Dolliver, 2009; Taylor, Wheeler, White, Economou, & Osborne, 2015; White, Alcock, Wheeler, & Depledge, 2013). The plantations will not only establish a peaceful green space for the current residents and volunteers in the center but also ensure that people visiting this space in the near future have access to cleaner air and greener surroundings.

People from nearby locations as well as children studying in the center are actively involved in nurturing the saplings. The plantation process is an effective way for children to learn more about their natural surroundings and connect with the environment they stay in. Children, residents, and visitors will also have easy access to fruits, vegetables, and herbs because of the plantation.

When you plant trees in the holy city of Gaya, you’re not only seeking the revered blessings of your ancestors but also contributing to the betterment of natural ecosystems and rural communities. Every year, the trees you plant are expected to sequester about 168,000 kg of carbon from the atmosphere.