They are not just ornamental plants: 4 flowers that have sacred significance in Indian culture and religion
The culture of India is a colorful tapestry woven from intricate threads of mythology, philosophy, and nature. Here, every element has a deep meaning, including flowers.
News Bytes writes, "These are not just ornamental plants but mythological symbols of the Indian ethnos. Here are some short stories that reveal their spiritual and cultural significance."
Lotus
This flower has an unearthly beauty and symbolizes purity and divine enlightenment in Hinduism and Buddhism. Its unique ability to bloom in muddy water symbolizes the desire to rise above worldly vanity.
The lotus is associated with the deities Vishnu and Lakshmi, which makes it an integral part of various Indian rituals, religious ceremonies and architectural motifs.
Jasmine
Jasmine, known for its enchanting scent, is associated with Krishna, who is often depicted with jasmine garlands.
It is believed that the scent of jasmine signifies the divine and brings peace and tranquility. This plant, like the lotus, is an obligatory element of various religious ceremonies in Buddhism, especially in the southern regions of India.
Marigold
Marigold is a flower of devotion and positivity.
Bright marigolds are also called the "grass of the sun". They are considered an auspicious symbol and are used in Indian religious rituals.
In Hinduism, marigolds symbolize the sun god Surya and represent devotion and spiritual growth, while their bright orange and yellow petals bring positivity and warmth to temple ceremonies.
Parijat
Parijat or night jasmine symbolizes the merging of earthly existence with heavenly. Indispensable during Durga Puja and closely associated with Krishna, these flowers represent eternal love, the universe and divine romance.
Parijat is used to appease the goddess Lakshmi. It is forbidden to pick flowers from the tree as only those that have fallen to the ground are used in puja.