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/