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NATIONAL FLOWER OF INDIA
Lotus scientifically known as Nelumbo Nucifera is the National
Flower of India. It is a sacred flower and occupies a unique position in the art
and mythology of ancient India and has been an auspicious symbol of Indian culture
since time immemorial. The Lotus symbolises divinity, fertility, wealth, knowledge
and not to forget enlightenment. Lending to its uniqueness, the flower grows in
murky waters and rises on a long stalk above the surface to bloom glorious. It is
also a symbol of triumph, since the lotus is rooted in the mud and can survive to
regerminate for thousands of years. It represents long life, honor, and good fortune.
Untouched by the impurity, lotus symbolises the purity of heart and mind. Human
beings are instructed by Indian scripture to live a life of non-attachment, which
is very hard. The lotus holds additional significance for Hindus, as it is a symbol
of God and used often in religious practices. Then in Indian thought, there is the
last and final lotus - Charan Kamal or lotus feet of the Almighty. It was this depth
of thought that made the founding fathers of modern India enshrine the lotus in
the Constitution as the National Flower. |
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