When you say Durga Puja, Bengalis might hear Happiness! It is an emotion that is out of the world for them. Starting from glancing at the making of the idols, shopping for new clothes for puja, pandal hopping, hogging on good food, and more is the spirit of Durga Puja. Do you know what exactly ignites this same spirit of puja? It’s in the nature itself, the arrival of Shiuli Phool is the sign of Durga Puja!
The Significance Of Shiuli Phool In Durga Puja
The clear blue skies with fluffy clouds, a teeny tiny bit chilly October wind blowing and Shiuli Phool falling from its branches one by one signals the arrival of Durga Maa and Sharad. Bengalis just might say, “!”. The fragrance of Shiuli Phool is very intoxicating as we are literally knocking on the door for the grand celebrations of Durga Puja.
Even randomly spotting bunches of Kaash flowers across the fields is an indication that Durga Puja is near. The fragrance of Shiuli Phool is one of the best smells that is very near and dear to Bengalis. This magnificent feeling cannot be explained but can only be felt! Taking quick whiffs of Shiuli Phool wherever you pass its tree is a pure bliss of happiness.
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Remember, only Shiuli Phool has the privilege to be offered to the gods even if it has fallen on the ground. It has a special place as a favourite flower for gods. The rest of the flowers are always plucked from the trees.
These Are The Sacred Flowers Offered To Maa
During Durga puja, Maa is offered a bunch of flowers from morning to evening. The baskets just don’t stop filling with fresh, vibrant and fragrant flowers. There are some important ones:
- Hibiscus: This flower is the most near and dear to Durga Maa, she loves it the most. So, when it comes to worshipping Maa, Hibiscus is the way to go.
- Lotus: On the third day, she is worshipped as Mata Chandraghanta with Lotus. This alludes to her third eye being permanently open to fight evil in an instant.
- Rose: On the fifth day, she manifests in the form of Skandmata. So, red and yellow flowers are very near to her.
- Marigold: On the sixth day, she is in the form of Katyayani Devi, the most ferocious one. For prosperity, wealth and good health, marigold is offered.
- Butterfly Pea: It is also known as the Aparajita flower and is another sacred one. Aparajita is another name for Maa Durga as well. It is also offered to Shiva.
Also Read: Durga Puja 2023: This Pandal In West Bengal Is Bringing Egyptian Pyramids For Pujo Lovers
Have you spotted Shiuli Phool yet?
Cover Image Credits: Canva
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