Book Review: ‘India’s Forests’ by Arup Jyoti Saikia and Mahesh Rangarajan

Book Title: India’s Forests – Revisiting Nature and History
Author(s): Arup Jyoti Saikia and Mahesh Rangarajan
Publisher: Vintage Books
Number of Pages: 360
ISBN: 0143473204
Date Published: Feb. 20, 2026

Book Review

“India’s Forests: Revisiting Nature and History” is a collection of essays by distinguished scholars exploring the multifaceted relationships between Indian forests and society throughout history. The essays contest traditional views of forests as static entities, instead emphasising their dynamic nature shaped by power, culture, and conflict. Spanning from prehistory to contemporary times, the volume examines the impact of colonialism and the evolving significance of tribal and hill communities reliant on these vital ecosystems. Its integrative approach sources evidence from diverse fields, including archaeology and contemporary wildlife studies, to showcase how forests have been perceived and utilised over centuries.

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Co-edited by Arup Jyoti Saikia and Mahesh Rangarajan, the ten essays challenge romanticised notions of untouched forests and harmonious relationships with nature, suggesting that forests have long been sites of resource production, refuge, and rebellion. The authors use historical texts and archaeological findings to argue against the idea of forests remaining unchanged, providing evidence that commercial exploitation and land conversion have deep historical roots.

While the initial chapters effectively draw on ancient governance models and ecological histories, the non-linear geographical sequence may confuse readers. Despite this, “India’s Forests” is a great read for its scholarly contributions, offering rich insights into ecological and social interconnections, making it a significant read for those interested in environmental history and contemporary forest issues in India.

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