In a powerful example of how nature and memory can coexist, Gujarat’s Kutch region has transformed a once-barren stretch of land into the world’s largest Miyawaki forest. Spanning across the 470-acre Smritivan Earthquake Memorial and Museum complex, this lush forest is not just an environmental marvel—it is also a tribute to the 13,000 lives lost in the devastating 2001 Bhuj earthquake.
What Is A Miyawaki Forest?
I knew what a Miyawaki forest was but had no idea about Dr Nair and how he had created the world’s largest such forest in India.
At a time when the U.S has taken sustainability off its priority list I am just grateful that we have such heroes amongst us…
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 pic.twitter.com/WNra4TnhVP
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) April 9, 2025
This story recently gained widespread attention when business leader Anand Mahindra shared a video highlighting the transformation on social media. In his post, Mahindra praised Dr Radhakrishnan Nair, calling him a true “Green Hero of India” and expressing gratitude for such visionaries leading the way in sustainability.
The Miyawaki forest method, created by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, involves planting native species close together to rapidly grow dense, self-sustaining forests. Unlike conventional afforestation methods, Miyawaki forests can mature in just a few years while enhancing local biodiversity.
These forests provide several ecological benefits, including rainwater conservation, soil health preservation, carbon absorption, and oxygen generation. The Kutch Miyawaki forest now boasts over 6.5 lakh trees of 117 native species, making it one of the most biodiverse green spaces in modern India.
Smritivan: A Green Tribute With Purpose
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Smritivan isn’t just a forest—it’s a living memorial. With 50 check dams storing millions of litres of rainwater and a pathway lined with name plaques of earthquake victims, this site offers both healing and hope.
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The project also empowers the local community. Take Chandulal, for instance—a former rickshaw driver who now works as a gardener in the forest, supporting his family while nurturing nature. This initiative has created sustainable livelihoods and strengthened the connection between people and the planet.
Dr Nair’s Nationwide Green Impact
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Dr Radhakrishnan Nair has helped establish over 115 Miyawaki forests across India. His efforts in South Gujarat’s Nagro district have resulted in the world’s largest Miyawaki forest by the sea, transforming coastal landscapes while offering green cover and temperature control.
As climate concerns escalate globally, especially with some nations stepping back from environmental priorities, India’s Miyawaki forest movement—championed by Dr Nair and amplified by voices like Anand Mahindra’s—offers a model of sustainability the world needs now more than ever.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro (Images used for representation)