Indian Adventure Nagaur Harvesting Khejri On the road between Nawalgarh and Nagaur workers can be seen lopping the branches off trees. The wild khejri tree (Prosopis cineraria) covers about two-thirds of Rajasthan and contributes significantly to the economy. The fruit, pods, leaves, branches and twigs are all useful. The fruit of the tree is a food rich in protein. The dead leaves of the tree are natural fertilizers. Other parts are fed to the cattle to increase the milk yield. The branches are used for firewood and fencing. With a branch or two on the top of the tree left uncut, it will rejuvenate within a few months but there has been a decline in khejri cover because of indiscriminate cutting. Also called Shami, this tree is revered among Hindus and is worshipped as part of the Dasara Festival. The Rajputs used to worship the tree and then liberate a jay which was considered the sacred bird of Lord Rama. Return to the Indian Adventure Home Page.