Spiritual Ecofeminism: Independence and Resilience in Kumauni Women

Abstract

Spiritual Ecofeminism is a school of thought that is associated with Ecofeminism, which is a study of the interconnection between nature and women, and is concerned with analysing the shared experiences of domination of both. Most of the women from the rural background across the world are highly dependent on nature for fulfilling their basic needs as the responsibility of household chores mainly fall on them. Hence, the adverse effect of the ecological crisis is commonly experienced by women. In third world countries like India, Nature is not just perceived as a provider but forms an integral part of the culture, especially in the Central Himalayas, nature is worshipped as deities and the lives of people rely primarily on natural resources. Therefore, women folk in the hills form an intimate connection with nature due to their daily interaction with it for their sustenance. In this respect, nature is considered both valuable and sacred for its contribution in the sustenance of the hill people. It is both inspirational and motivational force behind the resilience and independence of the rural folk, mainly women. The concept of Spiritual Ecofeminism is centred on the idea of ‘Spirit of Nature’ as the epitome of strength and resilience. The firm belief of women on the strength and resilience of mountains, fountains and rivers in the region is apparent in their own strength and resilience. This paper attempts to reflect upon the deep-rooted belief of the Kumauni people in nature and the fortitude shown by them, mainly women folk in their daily lives, and also examine the portrayal of the same in literature in the light of Spiritual Ecofeminism.