Advocating Deep Ecology in Masurkar’s film Sherni

Abstract

This paper aims at examining how a Hindi film, Sherni discusses matters of environmental concern – particularly deep ecology. Arne Naess’ eight postulates of deep ecology can be applied to this film to show how it advocates deep ecology as a solution to most ecological or environmental issues. While the urban population sees a clear divide between the natural world and the world of human beings, the rural folk, particularly those who live near forests see no divide between the two. This coexistence is the root to all environmental sustainability. But when this complementary relationship is threatened by external factors like politicians, corporates, hunters, and shady forest officials, then the natural world is at risk and environmental sustainability and ethics prevail merely in theory. The central character Vidya clearly illustrates the need to live and let live and to maintain the ecological balance for the betterment of posterity.