Madhya Pradesh - Madonna Lily, White Lily

Botanical Name: Lilium candidum

Local Name: Commonly called as Safed Lily

'Lilium candidum - Madonna lily', by Magnus Manske,

licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Symbolic Meaning and Religious Significance

Often chosen for both weddings and funerals worldwide, white lilies symbolise a rejuvenation of the soul. They can represent purity, commitment and rebirth in general.

White lilies have significance in Hinduism and Buddhism as well. It symbolises enlightenment and purity of the soul as it is a flower that blooms and emerges from the mud.

Bibliography

https://www.bloomandwild.com/lily-flower-meaning

https://www.arenaflowers.co.in/blogs/news/what-is-the-meaning-oflilies#:~:

text=They%20have%20significance%20in%20Hinduism,and%20emerges%20from%20the%20mud.

Maharashtra - Jarul

Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia Speciosa

Local Name: Known as Jarul and Tamhan in Marathi

'Jarul', by Lokenrc, licensed under CC BY 2.5

Reason for being the state flower

Jarul or Pride of India as it is called is a well-known ornamental tree grown for its elegant purple flowers. The tree are native in South East Asia, India, Bangladesh and the Philippines. In India they are particularly found in the Western Ghats and Assam. It is commonly found in the dry and moist deciduous forests of Maharashtra. The Jarul tree and its flowers thrive in regional climates and represent the region excellently.

Symbolic Meaning

In Theravada Buddhism, the plant represents enlightenment.

Uses

It is known for its appearance, medicinal and economic benefits.

Its dried leaves are used for a preparation that can treat diabetes and urinary problems.

Bibliography

http://www.bsienvis.nic.in/State_flower/Maharashtra%20State%20Flower%20-%20Final%20-%2030.1.2014.pdf

https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pink-pride-of-maharashtra-16216156

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/maha-forgets-state-flower-jarul-in-2-cr-tree-plantation-drive/articleshow/52875172.cms

https://www.cityflowers.co.in/blogs/news/maharashtra-state-flower-jarul

Manipur - Shirui Lily

Botanical Name: Lilium mackliniae

Local Name: Known as Kashong Timrawon in Manipuri language

'Shirui Lily', by Mashangva, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Reason for being the state flower

It is vital and special as it is a specie of ground lily found exclusively in the Shirui Hills, located about 18 km from the district headquarters of Ukhrul. In other words, it cannot be transplanted anywhere else in the world. It is believed by the Naga tribes that if somebody destroys the Shirui Lily, the Naga community will be at threat again.

Symbolic Meaning and Cultural Significance

It is believed that this plant can only be grown in Shirui Hills, because attempts to plant it elsewhere by the British never succeeded. According to the legends of the Tangkhul Naga community the flower grows from the soil in the Shirui Hills where a princess lies buried waiting for her lover to return. These mythological tales have been passed down over generations and are told by the indigenous people of Ukhrul with much admiration for the flower. Due to the beautiful flowers, it is often associated with beautiful and modest girls in Manipuri culture.

Uses

It is used for medicinal purpose. It has antibacterial and ant antihelminthic properties hence it is used for treating skin and stomach related issues.

Interesting Facts

It was discovered by English botanist Frank Kingdon-Ward when he and his wife were visiting Manipur for research in 1946. It was named Lilium Mackliniae (botanical name) after his wife Jean Macklin.

Manipur celebrates an annual festival in honour of this rare and unique lily.

Bibliography

https://brainly.in/question/907005

https://www.outlookindia.com/outlooktraveller/explore/story/69852/the-rare-and-special-shirui-lily-from-ukhrul-manipur

http://bsienvis.nic.in/State_flower/Manipur%20State%20Flower%20-%20Final%20-%2010.12.1013.pdf

https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/manipur/why-manipur-celebrates-an-annual-festival-in-honour-of-this-rare-and-unique-lily-species-

6076664/

https://www.thebetterindia.com/205692/shirui-lily-manipur-beauty-tourist-spots-state-flower-extinction-nature-development-india/