Why Mango Leaves Are Used To Decorate Homes In Festivals – News18

In Hindu culture and religious practices, it is customary to create and place symbols, mantras, and names on doors, walls, vehicles, and other items during auspicious occasions and puja rituals. These symbols hold profound cultural, astrological, and spiritual significance, believed to usher in positive energy and ward off negative influences. One notable example is the use of mango leaves and marigold flowers as decorations during Diwali, a festival of lights and prosperity.

Mango leaves and marigold flowers, when used to create a ‘toran’ or decoration, symbolize purity and chastity. They are a representation of these virtues and are hung on the main entrance and other openings in the house after specific puja rituals. This act is believed to act as a protective barrier against negative influences, ushering in positivity, and bringing happiness, prosperity, and harmony to the household.

Mango leaves hold a special place in Hindu religion, deeply rooted in worship and mythological beliefs. They are an essential component of Vedic rituals, irrespective of the ceremony’s scale. The mango tree is classified as a Kalpa tree, believed to contain a divine essence, making mango leaves a vital part of making Kalash. Their unique structure, with raised fronts and inward-facing backs, is believed to act as a protective barrier against negative energy while inviting positive energy into the house, promoting happiness. From a scientific perspective, mango leaves also contribute to environmental purification and effectively absorb carbon dioxide.

Marigold flowers are revered as symbols of the Sun God, embodying light and radiance. In Sanskrit, they are referred to as ‘Sthalapushpa’ and are an integral part of the worship of various deities. The association of marigolds with the planet Jupiter is thought to infuse the house with positive energy, promoting happiness, prosperity, and overall well-being. Beyond their spiritual importance, marigold flowers also have scientific significance, purifying the atmosphere, promoting peace through their fragrance, and possessing antiseptic properties, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.