In the district of Kavrepalanchok in Nepal, there are trees worth more than gold and precious stones. This tree, which many locals see as their hope for a prosperous future, has recently faced significant security challenges. It is understanding why this requires delving into an incident that occurred around two months ago in the rural area of Roshi, where thieves stole a valuable tree. Bodhi Chitta Tree: More Valuable Than Gold.
The Bodhi Chitta Tree’s Value
Buddhists value the seeds of the Bodhi Chitta tree so much that they use them to make prayer beads or malas. These beads hold great religious importance, and sellers can also command very high prices for them in markets. The theft of this kind of tree was a disaster to Dil Bahadur Tamang, 42, who had considerably raised his standard of living by selling its seedlings.
Dil Bahadur’s journey was always challenging. He worked in various labor-intensive jobs to support his family, including in the extreme heat of Qatar’s construction sector. His fortunes turned around with the Bodhi Chitta tree, which brought hope and financial stability to his life. Dil Bahadur, along with his younger brother Sher Bahadur Tamang, earned a substantial income from selling the seeds of this tree for the past five years, supporting around 20 to 22 family members.
The Theft Incident
In mid-March, armed individuals broke into Dil Bahadur’s property at night and cut down his Bodhi Chitta tree. Despite measures such as barbed wire, iron gates, and CCTV cameras, the assailants overcame these defenses. The incident left Dil Bahadur and his family in shock and fear.
Sher Bahadur provided CCTV footage showing armed individuals outside their home. The local police are investigating but have not yet established a clear motive.
The Impact on the Community
The theft has affected Dil Bahadur’s family and spread fear among the local community. Many residents, like Narayan Homagi, who also relies on the tree for income, have taken additional iron gates to protect their trees. This incident has highlighted the ongoing conflicts and security issues surrounding the cultivation and trade of Bodhi Chitta seeds in the region.
Economic and Cultural Significance
Bodhi Chitta trees are significant both economically and culturally. Seeds, especially those from China, are always in high market demand, making them more valuable. This business has been growing over the last ten years, and it is now a money-making but dangerous venture for farmers.
The police have increased their patrols to protect these trees because they are worth so much money; however, the farmers still worry about what might happen to them while they are harvested. The value of Bodhi Chitta seeds and their connection to Buddhist practices make these trees highly prized and, unfortunately, a target for theft and conflict.
Government and Community Response
Better protection and regulation of Bodhi Chitta trees are needed to ensure farmers’ safety and the sustainability of their livelihoods. Local authorities are urged to provide more comprehensive security measures and create an environment conducive to legal and safe trade practices.
