Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Reviving Ujjain's Sacred Forest: A Vision
Ujjain, a holy city in India, was once a vast forest called Mahakal Van.
Over time, the forest disappeared as the city grew.
Anurag Tiwari, a forest officer, wants to bring back the forest by creating sacred groves called Aastha Vans.
These groves will have trees and plants that are special to the area and its temples.
The project involves the local community, who will take care of the groves.
The forest department is also working to protect wildlife and plans to build a big zoo.
The goal is to make Ujjain a place where nature and spirituality can grow together again.
Ujjain was once a vast forest called Mahakal Van, now largely urbanized.
Anurag Tiwari, an IFS officer, is leading the revival of the forest through Aastha Vans (sacred groves).
The project combines native tree species with plants associated with local deities.
Community involvement is crucial, with temple trusts and Gram Panchayats managing the groves.
The Forest Department is also tackling wildlife crime and planning a 210-hectare naturalistic zoo.
- Who
- Anurag Tiwari, IFS Officer, and the Ujjain community
- What
- Reviving the ancient Mahakal Van forest in Ujjain
- When
- Ongoing project with future plans for 2028
- Where
- Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Why
- To restore the city's natural heritage and spiritual identity
Urban Development
Environmental Conservation
Land Use
Urban Development
Urban development prioritizes land for infrastructure and housing.
Environmental Conservation
Environmental conservation advocates for preserving and restoring natural spaces.
Community Involvement
Urban Development
Urban development often involves top-down planning with limited community input.
Environmental Conservation
Environmental conservation emphasizes community involvement and local ownership.
- Location
- Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Historical Significance
- Ancient city known as Mahakal Van
- Current Area
- 51.83 to 157 sq km
- Project Lead
- Anurag Tiwari, IFS Officer
- Key Initiative
- Aastha Vans (Sacred Groves)
- Community Engagement
- Van Mela event with 1.5 lakh attendees
- Wildlife Protection
- Enforcement drives against banned wildlife products
- Future Plans
- 210-hectare naturalistic zoo