194
The Banyan (Ficus bengalensis) which was declared as the National Tree of India, has very big structure, with wide expanding branches and deep roots that symbolizes country’s unity. Because of its ever-expanding feature and longevity, the tree represents eternal life. Apart from immense medicinal values, Banyan is associated with many Indian myths and rituals. In Hinduism, the Banyan tree is worshiped as ‘Kalpavriksha’ which gives the meaning of ‘wish fulfilling tree’ in Sanskrit.