The first recorded event of Chipko, Tree Hugging, took place in village Khejarli, Jodhpur district, in 1731, when 363 Bishnois, led by Amrita Devi sacrificed their lives while protecting green Khejri trees, which were considered sacred by the community. The Bishnois attempted to save the trees by hugging them. The loggers sent by the local ruler killed both people and trees. Today the Bishnois’ attempt to save their trees is seen an inspiration and a precursor for Chipko movement of Garhwal and more generally for the Tree Hugger movement.
(Source: vousetesbeauu)