Bishnoi community

About the Bishnoi community:

• The Bishnois belong to a Hindu religious sect found in the Western Thar Desert and some northern states of India. 
• They trace their origins to the teachings of Guru Jambhesvara who was born to a Panwar Rajput family in 1451 AD at Peepasar village of Nagore district in Western Rajasthan.
• They strictly forbid the harming of trees and animals. 
• They believe in protecting the environment and can die doing it so. 
• The person of this community are inspired and gets inspiration from Amrita Devi, a Bishnoi woman who was killed in 1730 while trying to protect a grove of khejri trees. 

Key facts about the Khejri tree

• It is considered a sacred tree in Rajasthan. 
• It is also called jant or janti in areas like Alwar, Sikar, Jhunjhunu,
• Significance:
  • It is a nitrogen-fixing tree which enhances the fertility of the soil. 
  • The fruit is used to make the very popular local dish ‘Sangri’
  • The bark of this tress is used medicinally for a range of ailments. 
  • It plays a vital role in preserving the ecosystem of arid and semi-arid areas, mainly in the Thar Desert. 
  • The leaves have high nutritive value and are locally called ‘loong.