This paper explores the evolution of human civilization through the lens of agriculture and its accompanying rituals. By analyzing global harvest traditions—from the "grain-soul" concepts in James Frazer’s The Golden Bough to regional Indian festivals like Pongal, Nabanna, and Bihu—the author illustrates a universal "peasant formula" of gratitude toward nature. These festivals transcend mere ritual, representing a profound psychological connection between human survival, spiritual devotion, and ecological harmony. Ultimately, the study highlights how the sacred treatment of new crops reflects an ancient, enduring wisdom that views food as the vital energy sustaining both the body and civilization.
Soumen Rakshit (2026) studied this question.