வேள்பாரி நாவலில் பல்லுயிர் பாதுகாப்பும் சூழலியலும்: Biodiversity conservation and ecology in the novel Velpari

Abstract

Nature forms the foundation of human existence. Humans, plants, animals, birds, microorganisms, water bodies, mountains, and forests function as an interdependent biological system. The diversity within this system is known as biodiversity. Today, biodiversity faces significant threats due to globalization, urbanization, deforestation, and industrialization. In this context, Tamil literary works serve as vital documents emphasizing a lifestyle in harmony with nature. Su. Venkatesan’s novel *Velpari* not only reconstructs the lifestyle of the Sangam era based on historical grounds but also portrays a nature-centric social structure. Specifically, the novel intricately depicts an integrated way of life involving forests, mountains, flora, fauna, birds, medicinal plants, and water bodies. It presents an ecological perspective asserting that humans are not the masters of nature but merely a part of it. This article examines concepts such as biodiversity conservation, the human-nature relationship, sustainable living, species diversity, and ecological balance as portrayed in *Velpari*, analyzing them through the lens of modern ecological theories. The objective of this study is to elucidate the ecological significance of the novel *Velpari*.

Keywords

• Vēḷpāri
• Biodiversity
• Ecology
• Ecocriticism
• Deep Ecology
• Sustainable Development
• Tamil Literature