The Cultural Significance of Marigolds in India

10 Flowers, 10 Places

Countries and regions around the world where flowers play a vital role — in cultural and religious traditions, the economy, and daily life.

A closer examination of the significance of flowers reveals their integral role across various cultures. From the sacred lotuses in Sri Lanka to the vibrant marigolds of India, the aromatic jasmine of Egypt, and the stunning orchids of Papua New Guinea, each flower tells a unique story about the land it inhabits and the people who cherish it.

In the sacred city of Varanasi, India, the bodies of the deceased are adorned with intricate garlands of marigolds before they are cremated along the banks of the Ganges River. This vibrant flower is steeped in symbolism; according to Hindu beliefs, marigolds represent purity, resilience, and the promise of new beginnings. Consequently, they are omnipresent in various rituals, ranging from joyous weddings to solemn political events and vibrant festivals. Throughout India, vendors proudly display these blossoms, either piled high into colorful mounds or strung together as garlands, ready to grace newlyweds or enhance ceremonial altars. Beyond decoration, marigold petals are often dried to create a tea believed to aid digestion or simmered to produce a natural dye.

Slide 1 of 6: Marigolds on the Ganges River in the holy city of Varanasi. Credit… Keerthana Kunnath
Slide 2 of 6: An aarti lamp, held by priests during religious ceremonies along the ghats, or riverfront steps. Credit… Keerthana Kunnath
Slide 3 of 6: Negotiations in the Varanasi flower market commence as early as 3 a.m. Credit… Keerthana Kunnath
Slide 4 of 6: Two women enjoying a tranquil morning on the banks of the Ganges. Credit… Keerthana Kunnath
Slide 5 of 6: A bather immersed in the river’s sacred waters. Credit… Keerthana Kunnath
Slide 6 of 6: A basket of rose garlands resting on the riverbank. Devotees, making annual pilgrimages to the shrines and temples of Varanasi, toss roses and marigolds into the river as offerings to the goddess Ganga. Credit… Keerthana Kunnath

Marigolds, known for their hardiness and adaptability, thrive throughout India year-round, with heightened cultivation preceding the grand autumn festivals of Dussehra and Diwali, both celebrating the victory of light over darkness. Interestingly, while marigolds are now a quintessential part of Indian culture, they are not native to the region. Historical texts reference a saffron-hued flower, and archaeological findings such as terra-cotta plaques from between 300 to 100 B.C. depict individuals utilizing marigold-like blooms for prayer and ritualistic purposes. According to cultural historian and environmentalist Nanditha Krishna, author of Hinduism and Nature (2017), this flower was likely the Calendula officinalis. The marigold we recognize today — Tagetes erecta — originates from what is now Mexico, where it was celebrated by the Aztecs as a divine gift from the sun god, intended to honor the deceased. Just as marigolds are integral to farewell ceremonies in India, they also play a significant role during the Día de los Muertos celebrations, where vibrant paths of marigolds guide the souls of departed loved ones back home. The seeds of this cherished flower made their journey to India through Spanish and Portuguese traders in the 16th century, rapidly adapting to their new environment and eventually overshadowing the calendula.