A Visionary Botanist's Legacy: Dr. S.N. Hegde, Champion of Sustainable Living, Passes Away at 85

Pune bids a fond farewell to a remarkable soul, Dr. Shreekrishna Narayan Hegde, a revered botanist and an unwavering champion of sustainable living, who passed away at the age of 85. Dr. Hegde was not just a scientist; he was a philosopher, a visionary who challenged the very fabric of modern existence, urging a return to the profound wisdom of nature.

Affectionately known for his "wicked way" – a mischievous yet deeply earnest approach to life – Dr.

Hegde dedicated his life to demonstrating that a harmonious existence with our planet is not just possible, but imperative. His philosophy was simple yet radical: to live in sync with nature, rejecting the destructive allure of industrial agriculture and rampant consumerism. He passionately believed that every human being possessed an inalienable right to clean air, pure water, and nourishing food – a right that has been steadily eroded by contemporary practices.

His most tangible legacy is 'Anandvan' (Forest of Bliss), a self-sufficient commune nestled near Pune that he meticulously nurtured into existence.

Anandvan was more than just a farm; it was a living laboratory, a testament to what could be achieved when humans collaborate with the earth rather than exploit it. Here, Dr. Hegde and his followers practiced natural farming, producing all their food without chemicals, demonstrating a circular economy where waste was transformed into resource, and self-reliance was the cornerstone.

Dr.

Hegde was a fierce critic of conventional chemical farming, which he saw as a poison seeping into our food and ecosystems. He advocated tirelessly for traditional Indian farming methods, emphasizing biodiversity, soil health, and ecological balance. His work often involved delving into ancient texts and local wisdom, blending scientific rigor with timeless indigenous knowledge to forge a path towards a truly sustainable future.

He was a vocal opponent of unchecked urbanization and the exploitation of natural resources, always advocating for thoughtful, community-centric development.

Beyond his academic pursuits and activism, Dr. Hegde lived by example. He embraced a remarkably simple lifestyle, often consuming only what he grew, reflecting his deep commitment to the principles he espoused.

His gentle demeanor belied a formidable intellect and an unyielding spirit. He inspired countless individuals, from students to farmers, to rethink their relationship with nature and embark on their own journeys towards ecological consciousness.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his "wicked way" and the verdant legacy of Anandvan will continue to flourish, inspiring generations to come.

Dr. S.N. Hegde leaves behind a profound message: that true progress lies not in conquering nature, but in collaborating with it, nurturing it, and living as an integral, respectful part of its magnificent tapestry.