Parijati Flower
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Parijati Tree |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 8, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 6 |
| Quantity | 700,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1542 Stamp Number IN 1600 Yvert et Tellier IN 1312 Stanley Gibbons IN 1706 |
| Themes | Flowers | Plants (Flora) | Trees |
Table of Contents
Parijati Flower (Night Jasmine)
Scientific Name: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis
Description:
The Parijati flower, also known as Har Singar, Night Jasmine, or Sephali, is renowned for its delicate beauty and aromatic fragrance. It is an integral part of the Parijati tree and is celebrated for its unique blooming pattern and cultural significance.
Flower Characteristics:
- Color: The flowers are predominantly white with a vibrant saffron-colored stem.
- Shape: The flowers have a tubular shape with five petals that are spread out, creating a star-like appearance.
- Fragrance: The flowers are highly fragrant, with a sweet and heady scent that is particularly noticeable in the evening.
- Blooming Pattern: The Parijati flowers bloom in the evening and typically shed by the following morning. This ephemeral blooming cycle adds to their charm and mystical allure.
Blooming Season:
- Period: The flowers usually blossom between August and October, coinciding with the monsoon season in India.
Cultural Significance:
- Literature: The Parijati flower is featured in the poetry of Rabindranath Tagore, where it is depicted as a symbol of divine beauty and fleeting moments.
- Religious and Cultural Associations: The flower is often associated with various Hindu deities and is used in religious rituals and offerings. Its short-lived bloom symbolizes the transient nature of life.
Medicinal Uses:
- Traditional Medicine: The flower, despite its bitterness, is used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including:
- Appetiser: Acts as a natural appetite stimulant.
- Digestive Aid: Soothes the stomach and aids in digestion.
Preservation and Uses:
- Gardening: Parijati flowers are commonly grown in gardens for their aesthetic appeal and pleasant fragrance. They add a touch of beauty and elegance to any garden.
- Decorative Uses: The flowers are often used in garlands and floral arrangements for their visual appeal and fragrance.
Conclusion:
The Parijati flower’s beauty, combined with its cultural and medicinal significance, makes it a cherished plant in many regions. Its fleeting bloom and aromatic qualities contribute to its revered status in both traditional medicine and cultural practices.