216
Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), the national flower of India occupies a unique position in Hindu religion and Indian mythology. Lotus stands as a symbol for purity, wealth and achievement. This unique aquatic plant grows in shallow dirty waters with broad floating leaves bearing bright fragrant flowers on the top. Even though the flower is grown in filthy water, it is considered as very auspicious in Indian rituals. This sacred flower is a symbolic representation of fertility and long life because the flower survives thousands of years to re-germinate even after a long period of dormancy.