Stories from the Field
Ethnobotanical articles, recorded elder oral lore, folklore essays, and conservation updates archived by the Kesu Foundation field team.
The 363 Bishnois Who Died for Trees
In 1730, Amrita Devi and 362 others sacrificed their lives to protect Khejri trees in Khejarli, Rajasthan — a story that predates and inspired the Chipko movement.
Mapping the Dukh Bhanjani Beri of Sultanpur Lodhi
Our field team documents the 400-year-old Ber tree at Sultanpur Lodhi, capturing oral histories from the oldest custodians of Gurudwara Dukh Bhanjani Sahib.
Why Prosopis juliflora (Vilayati Kikar) Must Go
The invasive Vilayati Kikar is choking native ecosystems across Punjab and Haryana. Here's our systematic approach to removal and native replanting.
Sacred Groves & Devrai Traditions of North India
Exploring the ancient community micro-reserves preserved by village Panchayats and spiritual custodians across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Ethnobotany of Tahli & Neem: Traditional Remedies and Assemblies
From Datun toothbrushes to village Panchayat assemblies under Tahli trees, exploring the deep cultural relationship with indigenous timber.