A tradition is still alive in the hot sands of the desert of Rajasthan, which three hundred years ago gave the biggest message to the world to protect nature. Vishnoi Samaj is the society whose foundation was laid by Lord Jambheshwar, i.e. Jambhoji, who is considered to be an environmentalist. Jambhoji, born in the 15th century, not only gave such a life formula of 29 rules to the society, but also gave the form of religion to the unbreakable relationship between man and nature.
On this land, a historic sacrifice like Khejarli also took place, where 303 Vishnoi men and women sacrificed their lives to save the trees of Khejarli. Even today, in Vishnoi villages, deer roam like house guests and the protection of trees is considered more important than life.
Lord Jambheshwar was born in the year 1451 (Vikram Samvat 1508) in Pipasar village of Barmer district of Rajasthan. His father’s name was Lohat ji Panwar and mother’s name was Hansai Devi. He was extraordinary from the time he was born. According to folk beliefs, he was very calm, serious and connected to nature.
At that time, continuous drought, famine, destruction of forests, animal violence, caste conflict and evils and superstitions had increased in the society. According to belief, Jambheshwar ji felt that society needed a new direction and disciplined lifestyle. According to popular stories, after that he founded the Vishnoi Samaj.
It is said that he attained spiritual enlightenment at the age of 24. After this he started giving messages of social reform, environmental protection and non-violence. Jambhoji established the Vishnoi sect at a place called Mukam (near Jodhpur) on Ashadh Krishna Ashtami, Samvat 1542 (1485 AD).
These rules are based on life, nature and spirituality.
Some main rules:
