Gujarat - Marigold

Botanical Name: Tagetes

Local Name: It is called Galgoto in Gujarati and Genda in Hindi

'Farm of Marigold', by Prachi Wadekar, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Reason for being the state flower

Marigold is deemed highly for its ornamental, medicinal and ceremonial purpose. It is also one of the highly demanded cut flowers in the floral industry and Gujarat flourishes commercially due to the production of Marigold.

Symbolic Meaning and Religious Significance

Marigolds were often linked to the powerful strength of the sun and hence represent power, strength and light that exists within a person. In Hinduism the flower indicates auspiciousness. The colour orange signifies renunciation and hence it is offered to the deities symbolising the act of surrender.

Marigolds are also associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, who are considered a perfect couple according to Hindu mythology.

Uses

In common practice a toran made out of Marigold flowers is hung outside Indian homes during festivities. It is used in making garlands, for worship of gods, religious purposes etc.

Due to the pungent scent, they are good for repelling insects and pests from garden plants, and it also acts as a companion plant for tomatoes, eggplant, chili pepper, and potatoes.

Bibliography

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/marigold/marigold-flower-uses.htm

https://allgujaratnews.in/en/marigold-flowers-which-have-the-highest-productivity-in-india-in-gujarat/

https://www.indianspice.co.za/2021/03/25/the-spiritual-significance-of-marigold-flowers/