Why Marigold is the preferred flower for most Hindu rituals and festivals

Marigold, a brightly coloured flower with beautiful hues of orange and yellow, is one of the most used and preferred flowers when it comes to Hindu rituals, pujas, and festivals. They are super versatile, add a pop of colour to any space, and are said to be the favourite offerings of many Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The Marigold flower, commonly called ‘Genda Phool’, is also famous for its subtle aroma, and ease of growing. Here we mention a few reasons why it is one of the most preferred flowers and where it is used.

Just like roses are linked to love, and lilies are linked to peace, Marigolds are linked to Surya Dev or the ‘Sun god’ in Hinduism. The bright orange-yellow shades of the Marigold flower are similar to the orange-red hue that covers the sky during sunset and sunrise, and these flowers are thus believed to be auspicious. And not just Surya dev, the dual colours of Marigold are also said to be a symbol of the sacred fire that is energetic and vibrant, just like the flower.

In Hinduism, different flowers are said to be loved by different Gods and Goddesses. For example, it is said that goddess Laksmi really likes the Lotus, Goddess Kali likes Hibiscus, and Marigold is loved by Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Lakshmi too. The flower’s bright colour is believed to be a symbol of the divine aura of these Gods and Goddesses, and when offered in temples or during rituals, it helps bring peace into the household. Some people also believe that when Marigold is offered to Lord Ganesha, it helps remove any obstacles from your way and gives you Lord Ganesha’s protection.

Another reason why they are widely used and preferred in Hindu rituals is that Marigold flowers can be used in a variety of ways. The bright petals of the Marigold flower are not just great to make into garlands for the idols and pictures of Gods and Goddesses but also make for the perfect decor elements. The round, full appearance of a Marigold flower is said to be a symbol of the completeness of life.

Be it Navratri or Diwali, Marigold garlands are the most common and easily available. They stay fresh for a long time and just have a very energetic and positive appeal to them. The energy comes from the pop of colour, and the positivity comes from the fact that we have always associated them with Gods, rituals, and pujas. When they are strung around the home temples, they spread a nice fragrance. When used as garlands, they beautify the space, and when the petals are used for rangolis and decoration, they appeal to the eyes.

Usually, when people add Torans and Bandhanwars to their homes, they are also made of Marigold flowers and leaves. According to many traditions, Torans are one of the best ways to keep negativity and evil energies away. And so, a flower as bright and lively as the Marigold does the job perfectly. The positive energy that a Marigold flower has and the happiness that the colours add to a person’s heart are believed to help them abandon any negative thoughts.