The Bishnoi, blackbuck and chinkara: What exactly were Guru Jambheshwar’s principles regarding Thar wildlife?

The Bishnoi, blackbuck and chinkara: What exactly were Guru Jambheshwar’s principles regarding Thar wildlife?

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Sec: Species in news

Context:

• In 1998, Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and others allegedly hunted blackbuck in Rajasthan’s Kankani village, triggering a legal battle and backlash from the Bishnoi community, known for zealously guarding the wildlife and environment of the Thar Desert.

Why Do the Bishnoi Protect Blackbuck and Chinkara?

• The Bishnoi community, mostly found in western Rajasthan, is based on 29 principles set by Guru Jambheshwarjiin 1485. His teachings emphasized protecting nature, especially wildlife and trees.
• Ecological Faith:
  • Founded on the principle of compassion for all living beings, as reflected in rules like:
    • Rule 19: “Not to fell green trees.”
    • Rule 18: “Be compassionate towards all living beings.”
  • Guru Jambheshwarji’s teachings, including the 120 shabdas (statements), elaborate his philosophy, calling for equality, modesty, and tolerance.
• Respect for Wildlife:
  • The Bishnoi believe harming animals leads to a painful end, as reflected in Shabad 09, which warns against showing power over animals.
  • Shabads 10, 44, 64, and 85 further emphasize kindness toward animals and denounce killing them for selfish reasons.

Why Special Protection for Antelope?

• Blackbuck, chinkara, and other species are often found near Bishnoi villages. The community has historically protected wildlife like blackbuck, chinkara, and the Great Indian Bustard, as well as the Khejri tree.
• According to folklore, Bishnoi believes they may be reincarnated as deer, which explains the reverence for blackbuck. Guru Jambheshwarji is even said to have declared the blackbuck as a manifestation of himself, reinforcing its sacred status.

Historical and Modern Significance

• Khejarli Massacre: In 1730,363 Bishnoi sacrificed their lives to protect Khejri trees from being cut down by Maharaja Abhay Singh’s soldiers.
  • Amrita Devi, a Bishnoi woman was killed in 1730 while trying to protect a grove of khejri trees.
• The Bishnoi community has continued to defend the flora and fauna of the Thar Desert, even laying down their lives to protect wildlife from hunters and poachers.
• Understanding Bishnoi’s deep ecological consciousness can offer valuable lessons in preserving the environment for future generations.

About chinkara and blackbuck:

Source: DTE