Odisha State Flower - Ashoka

What is the State Flower of Odisha?

Ans: Ashoka

Saraca asoca or Ashoka, translates to ‘sorrow-less’ and bears strong prominence is Hindu mythology and culture. This rain forest tree is found in Indian subcontinent, primarily in Western Ghats and the western coastal zone. It has beautiful fragrant flowers and deep green leaves in clusters.  The lush branches flaunt orange-yellow flowers in February-April, which are dry from the outside. Ashoka also features in Buddhist monastery and Hindu temples, mainly at the entrance. It is also believed to be the symbol of fertility.

Ashoka tree finds prominence in Hinduism and its scriptures. It is worshipped in the month of Chaitra and is known to be one of the flowers in the quiver of Hindu Love God, Kamadeva and signifies seduction and hypnosis.  It has more than 16 names in Sanskrit and it also finds mentions in Ramayan as Seeta was imprisoned in Ashoka Vatika, full of Ashoka trees.