The present experimental study is investigated on Kirloskar make TAF-1 model CI engine powered by Garcinia gummi-gutta methyl ester (GGME) biodiesel and its blends with mineral Diesel. Biodiesel is conceived from Garcinia gummi-gutta seed oil via novel immobilized lipase transesterification and achieved the higher yield of 93.08% at 73 h of reaction time. Raw GGME was blended with mineral Diesel in various proportions, namely, B10, B20, B30, 840, and B100 and the GGME blends were analyzed in terms of combustion, performance and emission characteristics. The results show GGME B20 blend displays lower peak pressure and heat release rate (HRR) than mineral Diesel. The brake thermal efficiency (BTE) for 820 blend reveals there is a slight decrement at peak load. Brake specific energy consumption of GGME blends was marginally decreased for increased blend concentration and at peak load B20 blend shows minor deviation against mineral Diesel. In terms of tailpipe emission, B20 blend exhibits sharp decrement for HC, CO followed by smoke emission at full load condition. B20 blend produces higher NO, and CO2 emissions than mineral Diesel at peak load. The above results conclude that the B20 blend of GGME showcased as a chief alternative fuel for the CI engine. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.