Charlie Dance "The history of trees in India"

Acting as shrines, records, and holy places the tree is sacred. The tree is record of history in Indian culture, and considered sacred spaces. The shrine is also of key importance. When a shrine is installed these are never removed or desecrated by anyone, no matter where they are; the middle of a park, or the middle of a 4 lane highway. The creation of a shrine in India can be seen as a way of reclaiming space, knowing that it will never be removed or destroyed. To create a shrine beneath or within a tree is a strong political and religious moment of claiming space, and preserving history. A traditional, religious and political transgression.  Anyone can make a shrine, no one can un-make a shrine.