Cloned Sapling of Guru Nanak's Sacred Miswak Tree Planted in Chandigarh Museum
A cloned sapling from the historic Miswak tree, revered as 'Lha Chang' or Tree of God and linked to Guru Nanak Dev's visit to Leh in 1517, has been successfully planted at the Museum of Trees in Chandigarh. This event marks the culmination of a dedicated seven-year effort to preserve a living symbol of faith and shared heritage across communities.
Historic Significance and Spiritual Legacy
The Miswak tree, scientifically known as Salvadora persica or Peelu, holds a unique place in the spiritual landscape of Ladakh. According to local lore, during Guru Nanak Dev's journey to Leh in 1517, a twig he used for oral hygiene took root and grew into a tree, later revered by people of various faiths as a divine symbol. Over the centuries, this tree has become a testament to Guru Nanak's legacy, with locals in Leh honoring him as 'Rimpoche Lama' or Great Prophet, not only for spiritual teachings but also for symbolically bringing greenery to the cold desert region.
Challenges and Breakthrough in Cloning
Museum curator D S Jaspal detailed the significant challenges faced in cloning the Miswak tree. Due to its limited regenerative capacity and the stark climatic differences between Leh's cold desert environment and the plains of Chandigarh, three initial attempts failed. The breakthrough came in October 2025 when successful cuttings were sourced and preserved using a specialized wax-sealing technique to retain moisture during transit. This innovative method ensured the sapling's survival and eventual planting at the museum.
Preservation of Sacred Heritage
Former MP Tarlochan Singh highlighted the importance of this project, noting that the Museum of Trees has now cloned 13 sacred trees associated with Sikh heritage. He emphasized, "When original sacred trees fade, their legacy must endure." The museum houses over 300 culturally and historically significant plant species, including dedicated sections for sacred and rare flora. This initiative is supported by the Union Ministry of Culture and promoted by the Chandigarh Nature and Health Society, aiming to safeguard botanical heritage for future generations.
Symbol of Unity and Perseverance
Jaspal explained his persistence over seven years, stating, "This tree carries a message of unity between nature, spirituality, and human perseverance." In Leh, the remains of the original sacred Miswak tree, carefully wrapped and preserved, continue to stand as a quiet symbol of Guru Nanak's enduring legacy across faiths. The cloned sapling in Chandigarh now serves as a living reminder of this shared heritage, bridging historical roots with modern conservation efforts.
The planting of this cloned sapling not only celebrates Sikh heritage but also underscores the importance of preserving rare species in fragile ecosystems like Ladakh's, where the Miswak tree survives in scattered pockets. This project exemplifies how cultural preservation and environmental stewardship can intertwine to honor spiritual traditions and promote biodiversity.
