Uttarakhand - King of the Himalayan Flower

Botanical Name: Saussurea Obvallata

Local Name: Known as Brahma Kamal in Hindi

'Bramha Kamal', by Rajesh Dangi, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Reason for being the state flower

King of the Himalayan Flower is native to the Himalayas, Uttarakhand and some parts of China and Burma. It is grown exclusively in the state of Uttarakhand and found along the higher portions of the Himalayan range in the state. It is extensively used by the local population.

Symbolic Meaning, Religious Significance and Local Beliefs

It is a sign of luck and prosperity. It is known as Brahma Kamal named after God Brahma; the deity who is believed to have created the universe in Hinduism. It is considered that if you pray when the flower is blooming your wishes get fulfilled. It is a local belief in Uttarakhand that the flower protects one from evil eyes and that it should always be gifted rather than being bought or sold. It is also believed that Brahma Kamal is adored by deities hence it is a part of religious offerings. The flower is mentioned in Hindu scriptures and is part of religious offerings at holy shrines, including Kedarnath, Badrinath and Tunganath.

Uses

The flower is highly valued in Tibetan medicine and Ayurveda for its healing properties. The leaves, flowers and rhizomes are used for treatment of cold, cough, bone ache, intestinal ailments and urinary tract problems. The rhizomes in particular has antiseptic properties and is used for healing cuts and bruises.

Bibliography

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/259308185_Brahma_Kamal_-_the_spiritually_revered_scientifically_ignored_medicinal_plant

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/watch-rare-brahma-kamal-flower-bloom-in-uttarakhands-snow-clad-chamoli-2308096

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/you-are-a-lucky-tourist-if-you-see-brahma-kamal-flower-blooming-inuttarakhand/

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saussurea_obvallata