Bridging Tradition and Science: Scientists Study Havans Impact on Cloud Formation and Rain

Smoke is an aerosol. Aerosol particles help form clouds. Eventually, clouds bring rain. Havans, or traditional fire rituals, also create smoke. Therefore, a group of scientists has launched a project to test if havans can help bring rain.

Research Team and Purpose

Scientists from the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology, IIT Indore, and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) are leading the research. They want to find out if Som Yagya — a ritual where the juice of the Samovalli plant (Sarcostemma brevistigma) is offered to the fire — can clean the environment and promote cloud condensation.

Experiments at Mahakaleshwar Temple

On April 24, about 15 scientists gathered at Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. While seers performed the Som Yagya, the team measured various parameters. They recorded the release of gases, temperature and humidity changes, aerosol behavior, and cloud condensation activities until April 29.

NGO Support for the Study

Moreover, the NGO Akshay Krishi Pariwar is supporting the project. Their goal is to bridge traditional agricultural practices with modern science. In fact, scientists said the study aims to scientifically validate ancient religious beliefs.

Instruments and Measurements

Rajesh Mali, a retired scientist from the India Meteorological Department, explained the instruments used. He said, “This is a unique project which started on April 24 and will go on for next a few years. In this project, we are measuring various things by using at least 13 instruments. The two main instruments are Cloud Condensation Nuclei Counter (CCN counter) and a Tethersonde (an instrument that measures atmospheric parameters). CCN measures the concentration of aerosol particles in air to build blocks of cloud droplets. Tethersonde, a balloon with a sensor, measures pressure, temperature and humidity in the area where the Yagya is being performed.”

Additionally, he said that they also used a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS) to monitor aerosol events.

Data Collection and Analysis

Meanwhile, Dr. Yang Lian from IITM’s regional office shared how they collected data. He said, “After measurement, we will analyse the effect of Yagya on environment. We are noting down the data four times a day — two times during Yagya and in morning and evening. The comparative data will help us to conclude our study.”

Bridging Ancient Beliefs and Modern Science

Similarly, Anil Kothari, Director of the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology, said the study carries deeper meaning. He said, “This study will work as bridge between science and ancient practices of India. It will offer new insights in the field of environment and science.”

The Larger Goal

Furthermore, Gajanand Dange, convener of Akshay Krishi Pariwar, explained the ultimate goal. He said the team aims to provide “scientific evidence” for traditional beliefs that have existed for centuries. However, if the current study fails, they plan to use more advanced instruments to measure atmospheric changes better.

He emphasized, “Our motive is not to question the efficacy of Yagyas and its effect mentioned in the Vedas. Our effort is to provide supportive scientific evidence so that these traditional methods can be used by the scientists to deal with problems such as global warming and drought.”