Kerala - Golden Shower

Botanical Name: Cassia fistula

Local Name: Known as Kani Konna Flower in Malayalam

'Kanikkonna', by Dinesh Valke, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Reason for being the state flower, Religious Significance and Symbolism

It is chosen as the state flower as its an essential part of the cultural practices in the state. The flowers are of ritual importance in the Vishu festival of Kerala which symbolizes new beginnings and hope. During Vishu the 'Kannikona' flower is one of the important elements used to adorn the main arrangement which symbolizes prosperity, and this arrangement is the first thing that every family member has to take a look at on the day of Vishu.

When in bloom its yellow flowers are a pretty sight, and the name 'golden shower' explains its look well. The tree was also depicted on a 20-rupee stamp.

It is referred as ‘Swarnapushpa’ or ‘Bahava kephool’ in Hindi. The tree and its flowers are mentioned in some Indian epics like ‘Kishkindha Kanda’ and ‘Aranya Kanda’ in Ramayana as well as in literature, paintings and some contemporary works.

Uses

In India, flowers of the golden shower tree are occasionally eaten by people. The leaves have also been used as an addition to the diets of cattle, sheep, and goats fed with low-quality forages.

Bibliography

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cassia_fistula

https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/where-have-all-vishu-kanikonna-flowers-gone-60291

https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cassia+fistula

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/summer-showers-of-gold-amaltas-tree-indian-laburnum-health-benefits-5187755/