Radhe! Radhe!
The grand festival of Janmashtami celebrates the embodiment of love and kindness. Lord Krishna is the epitome of finding joy and bliss in the smallest of things. We all know about him stealing butter and hiding it from Yashoda Ma. He is our favorite makhanchor and the morning of Janamashtmi feels like a celebration in itself.
Born at midnight, in the Dwapar Yug- 5000 years ago, Lord Krishna was a mischievous child who grew up to become the zenith of love and devotion. And such are his devotees, celebrating his birth by the blowing of conches, performing artis, fasting on the auspicious day. Devotees shower flowers on the idols of Lord Krishna, give him a bath with panchamrit, and then dress him in beautiful colorful clothes. The most adorable ceremony comes later when Lord Krishna is placed on a cradle and rocked by devotees filled with love and emotion for their beloved Bal Gopal.
Lord Krishna was a lover of Aromatic plants and we are here to tell you about his favorite ones, so you can grow them in your garden too!
Harsingar
The Harsingar also called the Night-flowering Jasmine or the Parijat is said to be among the favorite flowers of Lord Krishna. The white petals of the flower are arranged in the shape of a pinwheel sitting atop an orange stem, emitting a sweet fragrance all around. The flowers bloom at night and fall off by morning creating a carpet of white.
Passion Flower
The Passion flower or the Passiflora, commonly called the ‘Krishna-Kamal’, are tendril-bearing wines with dramatic, showy flowers that immediately catch attention. The purple flower attracts many butterflies and bees which is beneficial for pollination, and is a glamorous climber. The flower was also among Lord Krishna’s favorites and is a must-have in your gardens.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
The Holy Basil is a plant whose leaves are offered to Lord Krishna during pujas and festivities. The leaves of the scared Tulsi emit a divine fragrance and in Hindu mythology, the Tulsi plant is considered to be a gateway between heaven and earth. Also known as the ‘Queen of Herbs’, the plant is an embodiment of Lakshmi, wife of Vishnu and also the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
So, now that you know about Makhan Chor’s favorite plants and flowers, why not bring them home and make an offering to our little Bal Gopal in our own green way!
Happy Janmashtami!
0 Comment