Books
SACRED – THE MYSTICISM, SCIENCE, RECIPES & RITUALS around the plants we worship By Vasudha Rai
Sacred is not just a book but a movement—a compelling narrative that urges us to see plants not just as resources but as living embodiments of the divine. Rai traces the sacred significance of over 40 plants in Indian traditions
A Journey Through Divine Botany | The Forgotten Language of Plants
Sacred is not just a book but a movement—a compelling narrative that urges us to see plants not just as resources but as living embodiments of the divine. Rai traces the sacred significance of over 40 plants in Indian traditions, from the revered peepal and banyan to the fragrant frankincense and resilient neem. Through each chapter, she examines the spiritual, medicinal, and ecological importance of these plants, challenging readers to rethink how we perceive and preserve nature.
Worship Beyond Rituals
Rai critiques the transactional nature of modern worship, where offerings to trees and rivers are made for personal gain but with little regard for genuine conservation. She argues that true reverence lies not in rituals but in active preservation—a sentiment backed by alarming data. For instance, despite global pledges, the world lost 16 million acres of forests in 2023 alone, exacerbating climate crises and species extinction.
Science Meets Spirituality
Blending scientific research with spiritual wisdom, Sacred presents compelling studies on how plants like frankincense, haritaki, and sandalwood have profound health and ecological benefits. From reducing airborne microbes by over 90% to enhancing memory and emotional well-being, these plants offer solutions to modern ailments while serving as cultural touchstones.
A Manifesto for Sustainable Living
Rai’s narrative is a clarion call to embrace a sustainable lifestyle—one that values planting trees, preserving forests, and understanding the irreplaceable role of biodiversity. She challenges readers to take simple yet impactful steps: planting trees on birthdays, protecting fully grown trees from deforestation, and incorporating ancient plant rituals into daily life for ecological harmony.
About The Author
Vasudha Rai is a bestselling author, columnist, podcaster, and award-winning journalist with over two decades of experience in beauty and wellness writing. Her previous works include Glow and Ritual, which explored the intersection of traditional practices and modern lifestyles. Rai is also a certified yoga teacher and a vocal advocate for holistic wellness and environmental preservation
Sacred by Vasudha Rai will be launched on April 12, 2025.
