The lotus, or water lily, from the Nymphaea family, is India’s national flower. This aquatic plant is celebrated for its large, attractive pink blooms with symmetrically arranged petals and broad, floating leaves that convey a sense of tranquility and grace. In Hinduism, which represents a significant portion of India’s population, the lotus is revered and features prominently in various legends, religious mythology, and folklore. It symbolizes longevity, honor, prosperity, and triumph. The lotus thrives in both fresh shallow waters and muddy swamps and can regenerate for thousands of years, symbolizing endurance and the purity of heart, mind, and spirit despite challenging conditions.
The lotus is often depicted as the divine throne of gods and is a central element in worship and religious ceremonies. Its long stems contain air pockets, and its rhizomes function as roots. Symbolically, the lotus represents divinity, fertility, wealth, knowledge, and enlightenment. Its capacity to produce beautiful flowers despite growing in muddy swamps serves as a metaphor for maintaining purity and avoiding corruption, as well as living a life of detachment. In Vedic hymns, Lord Vishnu’s eyes are frequently described as lotus petals, and his pink feet are known as ‘Charan Kamal’ or ‘Lotus Feet.’ The lotus is also a common motif in ancient Indian art and architecture, often appearing in various designs and patterns.