In AP’s Kakinada District, Locals Worship A Blooming Brahma Lotus

In this Andhra Pradesh district, the Brahma lotus – a rare flower devoted to Lord Brahma Vishnu Maheshwar – is found, and it blossoms at midnight. To honour this unique occurrence, special rituals are conducted in the early morning by the residents, who believe that witnessing and hearing about the flower can cleanse their sins. According to the legend, the Brahma lotus is considered a divine flower capable of connecting with God. Brahma lotuses, once exclusive to snowy mountains like the Himalayas, are rarely spotted in the Telugu states. In recent times, one or two of these rare flowers bloom annually in certain areas. In the Kakinada district, a Brahma lotus bloomed last midnight at the home of Tirumala Shetty Satyanarayana and Kanakayamma in Annavaram village.

In response to the blooming Brahma lotus, people initiated worship, believing that its presence brings joy to both the residence and the village. Following the morning puja, Satyanarayana informed the homeowner that the Brahma lotus had been cut and offered to the temple.

The Brahma Kamal flower or Brahma Lotus holds significance as an avatar of Lord Brahma in Hindu mythology. Many believe that the sight of Lord Vishnu’s bed is revealed when this flower blooms. Indigenous to the foothills of the Himalayas, the Brahma lotus blossoms just once a year and is primarily cultivated in Uttarakhand. It can be found in regions spanning from Pindari to Japla, Roopkund, Hemkund, Brij Ganga, Valley of Flowers, and Kedarnath. Witnessing the flower annually is considered highly auspicious, and it is known by various names across the country. Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, a Bhopal astrologer and Vastu consultant, sheds light on the religious significance of the Brahma lotus.

In Hinduism, the Brahma Kamal is revered as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, gaining fame in India for its religious significance. According to the Puranas, the Brahma lotus holds a special place as Mother Nanda’s favourite flower and is traditionally plucked on Nanda Ashtami. Considered visible only to the luckiest individuals, it is believed that those who witness the blooming of this flower are destined for a life filled with happiness and prosperity.