1. Introduction: The Symbolism of Flowers in Indian Spiritual Life
In India, flowers are much more than just beautiful decorations—they are sacred symbols deeply woven into the spiritual and cultural fabric of daily life. From ancient times, offering flowers has been an integral part of rituals and traditions in temples and during pujas (prayer ceremonies) across the country. Each flower holds unique significance and is chosen with care to honour deities, invoke blessings, and express devotion. Among the many flowers used, Marigold, Lotus, and Vintya stand out for their special roles in connecting the devotee to the divine. In this article, we will explore how these three flowers hold deep spiritual meaning, why they are especially revered in Indian temples and pujas, and what their presence signifies in different religious contexts. This journey into the world of sacred blooms will help you understand not just the aesthetic value but also the profound symbolism that flowers bring to India’s spiritual landscape.
2. Marigold: The Vibrant Guardian of Ceremonies
Marigold flowers hold a special place in the spiritual and cultural fabric of India, especially when it comes to temple rituals and puja ceremonies. Their bright orange and yellow hues are considered auspicious, symbolising positivity, energy, and the presence of divine blessings. Known as Genda (गेंदा) in Hindi and Samanthi (சமந்தி) in Tamil, marigolds are among the most widely used flowers across diverse regions of India.
The Spiritual Significance of Marigold in Indian Worship
Marigolds are believed to attract positive energies and ward off evil spirits, making them an essential component for decorating temples, home altars, and festive spaces. They are often offered to deities such as Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi during important Hindu festivals like Diwali and Navratri. Due to their vibrant colour and strong fragrance, marigolds stand out in floral arrangements, reinforcing the mood of celebration and devotion.
Names of Marigold in Indian Languages
| Language | Name for Marigold |
|---|---|
| Hindi | Genda (गेंदा) |
| Tamil | Samanthi (சமந்தி) |
| Bengali | Ganda Phool (গাঁদা ফুল) |
| Telugu | Banthi Puvvu (బంతి పువ్వు) |
| Kannada | Chendu Hoovu (ಚೆಂಡು ಹೂವು) |
Cultural Practices: Garland Making & Decoration
A unique aspect of marigold usage is the art of garland making. In every Indian market, you can find artisans skillfully stringing together marigolds into long garlands, called mala, which are used to adorn temple entrances, deity idols, wedding venues, and even homes during festivals. In South India, marigold garlands are also draped around vehicles or hung at the main door as a sign of protection and good fortune.
Typical Uses of Marigold in Puja & Temples:
- Adorning deity idols with fresh garlands
- Decorating temple pillars, arches, and doors with flower strings
- Offering marigold petals during aarti rituals
- Crafting rangoli patterns using marigold petals for festive occasions
- Draping around photographs or statues of ancestors during remembrance ceremonies
The humble marigold thus stands as a vibrant guardian at the heart of Indian spiritual life—a symbol that brings people together in devotion and celebration across languages and communities.
3. Lotus: The Divine Emblem of Purity and Creation
The lotus, or “Kamal” in Hindi, holds a deeply respected position in Indian culture and spirituality. Unlike any other flower, the lotus rises from muddy waters yet remains untouched by impurities—a symbol of purity, resilience, and spiritual awakening. This quality reflects a key teaching in Indian philosophy: to remain unattached and unaffected by worldly troubles while pursuing higher consciousness.
Stories & Myths Around the Lotus
In the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, the lotus is more than just a flower—it is woven into stories that highlight creation, divinity, and cosmic order. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, was born from a lotus that emerged from Lord Vishnu’s navel as he rested on the cosmic serpent Ananta Shesha. This imagery beautifully expresses the idea of life and creation unfolding from purity and peace.
Gods & Goddesses Connected with the Lotus
The lotus is intrinsically linked with several deities. Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is often depicted standing or seated on a fully bloomed pink lotus, signifying spiritual power and material abundance. Lord Vishnu is also shown holding a lotus in his hand—symbolizing beauty, fertility, and eternity. Even Lord Ganesha, remover of obstacles, is sometimes portrayed with a lotus as an offering or throne, reinforcing its auspiciousness in worship.
Importance in Temple Rituals & Puja
Lotus flowers are considered one of the most sacred offerings during temple rituals and pujas across India. Devotees believe presenting fresh lotuses to deities invites divine blessings and helps purify the surroundings. In South Indian temples especially, intricate garlands made from lotus petals are used to adorn idols during major festivals like Navaratri or Diwali. In community practice, many families keep images or motifs of the lotus at their prayer altars to inspire personal growth and inner peace.
From ancient myths to daily worship, the lotus continues to inspire Indians to strive for spiritual excellence while engaging with the world compassionately. Its presence in temples serves as a gentle reminder: just as the lotus remains pure amidst muddy waters, so can individuals maintain purity of thought and action amidst lifes challenges.
4. Vintya Flower: Regional Love and Local Customs
The Vintya flower, though not as globally recognized as marigold or lotus, holds a special place in Indian hearts and rituals. Known by various regional names such as Aparajita, Shankhpushpi, and Clitoria ternatea, the Vintya flower is cherished for its spiritual energy and healing qualities across India.
Regional Names and Folk Identity
In different corners of India, the Vintya flower carries unique cultural significance. For example, in North India it is often called Aparajita, symbolizing “the undefeated.” In South India, it may be referred to as Shankhpushpi, believed to enhance intellect and calmness. This diversity in naming reflects the flower’s deep-rooted connection with local beliefs and practices.
| Region | Local Name | Spiritual Significance |
|---|---|---|
| North India | Aparajita | Symbol of victory and divine blessings |
| South India | Shankhpushpi | Mental clarity and peace in puja rituals |
| Bengal & East | Koyala/Neel Aparajita | Protection from evil and used in folk remedies |
Use in Temples and Puja Rituals
The Vintya flower is especially popular during festivals like Navaratri and Saraswati Puja. Devotees offer its vivid blue or white blossoms at the feet of deities to invoke wisdom, purity, and protection from negative energies. In many homes and temples, Vintya garlands are woven with sacred intent—believed to attract divine grace.
Folk Beliefs and Healing Traditions
Beyond temple walls, Vintya flowers feature prominently in local remedies and customs. According to Ayurveda and Unani traditions, parts of the plant are used to prepare medicines for enhancing memory and soothing anxiety. In rural communities, women adorn their hair with these blooms during family ceremonies to symbolize resilience and auspicious beginnings.
Through its many names and roles—from Aparajita’s symbol of strength to Shankhpushpi’s calming influence—the Vintya flower beautifully illustrates how India’s floral heritage is both regionally diverse and spiritually unified.
5. Choosing and Offering Flowers: Local Markets and Devotee Practices
In India, the process of choosing and offering flowers like marigold, lotus, and vintya for temple rituals and home puja is deeply rooted in tradition and community practice. Understanding where to obtain authentic flowers, how to respect local customs, and following proper etiquette ensures your offerings are received with spiritual sincerity.
Finding Authentic Flowers at Local Markets
Devotees often visit bustling flower markets early in the morning, such as Dadar Flower Market in Mumbai or Malleshwaram in Bangalore. These markets overflow with fresh marigolds, lotuses, vintya, and other sacred blooms. When selecting flowers, look for vibrant colors and freshness—wilted or damaged flowers are considered inauspicious. Many families also grow their own flowers at home for daily puja, nurturing plants with devotion.
Respecting Local Customs
Each region in India may have its unique preferences and taboos regarding flower offerings. For instance, red hibiscus is commonly offered to Goddess Kali in Bengal, while white lotus is preferred for Lakshmi puja in the South. Always ask local vendors or elders about which flowers are appropriate for specific deities or festivals. Avoid offering flowers known to be taboo for certain gods; for example, ketaki (screw pine) is traditionally not offered to Shiva.
Etiquette of Offering Flowers
When visiting a temple or performing home puja, handle flowers with clean hands and a pure heart. Do not smell the flowers before offering them; this act signifies keeping the offering uncontaminated for the deity. Place flowers gently at the deity’s feet or on the altar without tossing or dropping them carelessly. In temples, follow the queue system and observe silence or soft chanting while making your offering. At home, involve family members—especially children—to pass down these traditions through generations.
Community Sharing & Sustainability
Many communities encourage sharing surplus flowers with neighbors or using leftover petals for composting rather than discarding them as waste. This practice honors nature’s cycle and reflects the value of gratitude within Indian culture.
Nurturing Spiritual Connection
The act of choosing and offering flowers is more than ritual—it is a mindful expression of love and reverence for the divine. By honoring local practices and engaging with community markets, devotees deepen their spiritual journey while supporting traditional livelihoods.
6. Conclusion: Blossoming Faith – Flowers as a Bridge to the Divine
Throughout India, the marigold, lotus, and vintya flowers are not just beautiful gifts of nature—they are living symbols of devotion that connect us deeply to our spiritual roots. These floral offerings, so prominent in temple rituals and daily puja, serve as vibrant expressions of faith that transcend language and region. The marigold’s energetic hues reflect joy and auspiciousness during festivals and weddings; the serene lotus represents purity, enlightenment, and new beginnings; while the sacred vintya flower, though less known outside certain communities, holds a cherished place in traditional worship for its fragrance and resilience.
Generations have woven these flowers into their prayers, teaching children and newcomers how to string garlands, decorate mandirs, or simply offer a single bloom with heartfelt intention. By engaging with these age-old practices—whether at home altars in Chennai, grand temples in Varanasi, or community gatherings in Mumbai—we sustain a living tradition that bridges our everyday lives with the divine presence.
As we move forward in a changing world, let us continue to honour this heritage. Encourage your family and friends to explore the meaning behind each flower, learn local customs, and participate together in puja or temple seva. In doing so, we not only preserve India’s spiritual wisdom but also nurture a blossoming faith that will inspire many generations to come. Let every flower offered be a reminder that our connection with the divine is ever-living—fresh as morning dew on a marigold petal or the opening of a lotus at dawn.
