Why do we offer APTA leaves on Dussehra?

Why do we offer APTA leaves on Dussehra?

“This happened on Dussehra and to commemorate this event, people collect the leaves of Apta tree and present it to elders as gold,” Vaidya says. Offering the leaf is symbolic of wishing prosperity and happiness.”

How do you use APTA leaves?

On Dussehra, apta leaves are placed in a plate in front of the diety. People then take the leaves and exchange it amongst them calling it ‘sona’. Another legend attached to the custom also dates back to the times of Lord Ram. King Raghu, ancestor of Rama was a generous man.

What is APTA leaves called in English?

The leaves of the apta tree, known as bidi leaf tree or its scientific name Bauhinia racemosa, is offered to others in the family during Dussehra celebrations. It’s a custom to exchange the leaves calling it “sona” or gold during the festival. Even the leaves of the tree are called “sonpatta” or gold leaves.

Which leaves are used in Dussehra?

In Maharashtrian families it is customary to exchange leaves of the Aapta tree on the Hindu festive day of Dussehra. An act known as exchanging Gold—pointing to the special significance of the plant on that particular day. This is also why the tree is often referred to as Sonpatta (literal translation: leaves of gold).

Why do we celebrate Dussehra?

The eastern and southern states celebrate Dussehra as the victory of Goddess Durga over the evil demon Mahishasura. It begins on the first day of Navratri and continues for nine days. On the other hand, most northern and western states of India celebrate Dussehra as Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.

Why do people put grass on their ears on Dussehra?

On the day of Dasara, the nine-day-old sprouts (called Noratras or Nortas or of Navratris or nine nights) are used as symbols of luck. Men place them in their caps or behind their ears. After Dasara, the hot summer ends, especially in North India. The onset of cold weather is believed to encourage infections.

What is Sona tree?

#BauhiniaPurpurea is a tree that bears seasonal violet flowers enhancing the subtle beauty of our Teakhouse, when in bloom. Local Name: Sona in Marathi (local language) English Name: Purple Bauhinia, Orchid tree ,Camel’s foot tree, Butterfly tree, Geranium tree.

Which tree is Worshipped during Dussehra?

One such festival is Vijayadashami or Dussehra. After the burning of Ravana, Shami leaves are given to each other at many places. While the Shami tree is worshipped at many places.

Which leaves are used during festival?

‘Torana’ meaning gateway in Sanskrit, is a garland-like decorative, made out of mango-tree leaves. It is used to adorn the doors of homes in all major Hindu festivals and auspicious occasions–be it the puja of a deity or even wedding functions.

What is APTA leaves used for?

Apta leaves (Bauhinia racemosa but commonly known as the Bidi leaf tree) is a medicinal species of flowering shrub which grows 3–5 metres tall and flowers between February and May. It is found in tropical Southeast Asia. The extract of Apta leaves has antimicrobial and antioxidant effects and is used in the treatment of fungal infections.

Why do people present apta tree leaves on Dussehra?

People present Apta tree leaves to friends, relatives and neighbors and wish happy Dasara. There is an interesting story on why Apati tree leaves are presented on Dussehra. The English name of it is bidi-leaf tree. Fresh paste of the bark is used to cure swellings.

What is aduapta leaves?

Apta leaves (Bauhinia racemosa but commonly known as the Bidi leaf tree) is a medicinal species of flowering shrub which grows 3–5 metres tall and flowers between February and May. It is found in tropical Southeast Asia.

What are the benefits of joining the APTA?

BENEFITS INCLUDE: 1 Unlimited access to our expert content 2 Free and discounted continuing education courses 3 Full-text access to scientific literature via APTA Article Search 4 Opportunities to expand your network with chapters and sections

author

Back to Top