Surendra Pal Singh/Uttarkashi
The Brahma Kamal, blooming amid the snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows and tranquil valleys of the Himalayas, is much more than a flower: it is a living symbol of the faith, culture and identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Due to its unique structure, divine fragrance and religious significance, this flower has remained the cynosure of people’s devotion for years. Known as the state flower of Uttarakhand, Brahma Kamal blooms in the high Himalayan regions every year in August, and people from all over the country and the world come here to see this divine blossom of purity.
As per Hindu mythology, Brahma Kamal is considered extremely sacred, given its association with Lord Brahma himself. It is revered as the Creator’s incarnation. According to religious legends, Lord Shiva revived Lord Ganesha with the nectar from this flower. People believe that a mere sight of this much-revered lotus removes sufferings and brings happiness and prosperity.
Scientifically, Brahma Kamal is known as Saussurea obvallata. It is a rare species of the sunflower family, found in extremely cold and high-altitude Himalayan regions. It generally grows at an altitude of 3,000 to 4,000 meters above sea level. In Uttarakhand, it is found in the Gangotri Valley, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, Valley of Flowers, Roopkund, Madmaheshwar, Tungnath and many Bugyal areas. This aside, it is also found in the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Nepal and Bhutan.
The most remarkable feature of Brahma Kamal is that it doesn’t bloom all day like other flowers. It usually blooms at night, and by morning, its petals begin to close. Its white-yellow hue, attractive shape and gentle fragrance make it look and feel even more divine.
In August, religious fairs and folk festivals are held in villages across the mountainous districts of Uttarakhand and during this time, the locals offer Brahma Kamal to their deities, following the traditional customs. In many places, this flower is also given to devotees as prasad. Rural families reverently preserve it in their home shrines and take special care to preserve its purity.
Brahma Kamal is also known for its medicinal properties. Locals consider it beneficial for many ailments. However, scientists and environmentalists consider it a rare and protected species, stressing on its protection from overexploitation. This is why people are not allowed to pluck and damage it.
They further say that Brahma Kamal, aside from personifying the spiritual heritage of Uttarakhand, is a symbol of Himalayan biodiversity.
Blooming annually in the heights of the Himalayas, the Brahma Kamal conveys the message that the relationship between faith and nature is as sacred as its preservation, an environmentalist notes.
