2017-06-06 Tue

The story of the very brave Amrita Devi, a female from Bishnoi Community in Rajasthan risked her life to save the trees from being cut is very famous. The movement slowly spread and came to be famously called as the ‘Chipko Movement’. This movement is very significant in Indian History because the movement took place when there was no concept of conserving and protecting the nature and trees!

But if you think a little further did you ever wonder which was the tree which Amrita Devi tried protecting and why?

Well… The tree behind the movement was ‘Khejri’.

Khejri is known as the King of the Desert in Rajasthan. It is also known as kalp vrukasha as each and every part of the plant is useful. This tree covers about two-thirds of the geographical area of Rajasthan.

Khejri is considered as very auspicious in the various communities of Rajasthan. There are folklores on these plants in Marwari which tells us its benefits and how it has served in the desert like area. It is also worshiped during the time of a wedding. Khejri has played a cultural, social and economic role in the life of Marwari people and it won't be wrong in saying that it is a boon to Rajasthan!

So now seeing this aspect of Khejri tree, it won’t be wrong in saying that Amrita Devi took a right step in preserving this marvelous tree! Realizing the importance, India Post Issued a tiny stamp on khejri tree on World Environment Day in 1988 having face value of 60 Paisa.

Spread words and love nature!