What is the State Flower of Uttarakhand?

India is full of amazing colours and scents. Our country has more than 15,000 types of flowering plants. From the tall Himalayas to the warm south, you can find flowers of all shapes and sizes.

For example, most people know the Lotus, our National Flower, which is also called the "Sacred Lily." There is also the bright Marigold, often called the "Herb of the Sun" because of its golden colour.

But do you know which is the state flower of Uttarakhand? In this article, we will explore the history, meaning, and beauty of this special mountain flower.

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What is the State Flower of Uttarakhand?

The state flower of Uttarakhand is the Brahma Kamal. Its scientific name is Saussurea obvallata. This "King of Flowers" is found in the high-altitude Himalayan regions, usually at heights between 3,000 and 4,500 metres.

It is a unique plant that thrives on rocky slopes and cold glaciers. Physically, it features a thick stalk and papery, yellowish-green petals that protect the dark purple flower heads inside. It only blooms during the monsoon season, typically at night.

Uttarakhand chose it as the state flower because it represents the spiritual and natural heritage of the mountains.

7+ Lesser-Known Facts About the Brahma Kamal

• The Brahma Kamal usually blooms only once a year, and then only at night.
• The flowering season is short and usually happens from July to September, during the Himalayan monsoon.
• Its papery outer leaves aren't just for show; they serve as a cover, protecting the delicate inner flowers from cold mountain rain.
• Some species in this group are monocarpic. They grow for several years, flower just once in their lives, and then die after making seeds.
• Despite its name (which means "Lotus of Brahma"), it actually belongs to the Sunflower family, not the Lotus family.
• Since it blooms at night, it depends on certain mountain moths and other insects that are active after dark to help it produce seeds.
• The flower gives off a strong, unique scent. This scent acts as a chemical signal to attract pollinators from far away in the thin mountain air.
• The yellowish-green "petals" are really bracts, which are modified leaves. These bracts work like a greenhouse by trapping heat and keeping the seeds warm in the cold mountain air.
• This plant blooms at night. Its flowers open after sunset, which helps protect its delicate reproductive parts from the sun’s harsh UV rays during the day.

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Why Was Brahma Kamal Chosen As The State Flower Of Uttarakhand? 

Source: Morten Ross

The Government of Uttarakhand chose the Brahma Kamal (Saussurea obvallata) as its State Flower for good reasons. This flower has a strong cultural history and distinctive biological traits, and it represents the Himalayan ecosystem.

1. Historical and Cultural Significance

The Brahma Kamal has long been a key part of Uttarakhand's spiritual identity. The region is often called Devbhumi, or Land of the Gods.

• In Hindu mythology, the flower is named after Lord Brahma, the creator. People often offer it at the high-altitude shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Hemkund Sahib.
• In the Himalayan culture, the blooming of the Brahma Kamal is considered a rare and special event.

2. Ecological Reasoning

Uttarakhand is home to many beautiful flowers, but the Brahma Kamal stands out because of its unique scientific features.

• High-Altitude Specialisation: The Brahma Kamal grows only in the alpine zone, between 3,000 and 4,500 metres, unlike flowers found in the plains. 
• Its ability to survive in the tough Himalayan climate shows its remarkable resilience.
• Botanical Uniqueness: The Brahma Kamal is part of the Asteraceae family and has a special "greenhouse" feature. 
• Its translucent, papery bracts, which are modified leaves, shield the flowers from freezing temperatures and strong UV rays. 
• This unique adaptation makes it a scientific wonder in Uttarakhand.

Why Was Brahma Kamal Chosen And Not Any Other Flower Growing There?

The government picked this flower instead of others like the Roses or Jasmines for several clear reasons:

• Exclusivity: While flowers such as the Marigold or Rose are found throughout India, the Brahma Kamal grows mainly in the Himalayan region. 
• This makes it a unique symbol of Uttarakhand’s geography.
• Conservation Symbol: Naming it the State Flower helped draw international attention to the need to protect alpine plants. 
• Because the Brahma Kamal is threatened by climate change and over-harvesting, its new status supports conservation laws.
• Identity: The flower reflects the state’s motto and spirit, as it is rare, pure, and grows in the highest mountains.

What is the State Bird of Uttarakhand?

The Himalayan Monal is among the world's most colourful birds. People often call it the "Bird of Nine Colours" because the males have bright metallic green, blue, and purple feathers. These birds live in forests high up in the mountains. Its beauty and role in local culture led to it being chosen as the state bird of Uttarakhand.

What is the State Fruit of Uttarakhand?

The Kafal (Myrica esculenta) is a beloved wild berry found in the hills. These small, red, seedy fruits are famous for their sweet-and-sour taste. They grow naturally in the forests during the summer. Locals love them because they are packed with antioxidants and represent the authentic taste of the mountains.

What is the State Tree of Uttarakhand?

The Buransh, or Rhododendron, stands out for its bright red flowers that appear in early spring. When in bloom, these trees cover the green hills in red. This tree is the state tree because it plays an important role in both the Himalayan ecosystem and the local economy.

What is the State Instrument of Uttarakhand?

The Dhol and its companion, the Damau, are at the heart of Uttarakhand's culture. People play these traditional drums at weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. The Dhol is considered sacred, and special "Dholsagar" rhythms are passed down from one generation to the next. In 2015, the Dhol became the official state instrument to celebrate Uttarakhand's musical heritage.

What is the State Song of Uttarakhand?

"Uttarakhand Devbhumi Matribhumi" was written by Hemant Bisht and composed by Narendra Singh Negi. The title means "Uttarakhand, Land of Gods, Motherland." The song honours the state's holy rivers, tall mountains, and courageous people, inspiring pride and a sense of belonging among locals.

What is the State Motto of Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand, like the rest of India, uses the motto "Satyameva Jayate", which means "Truth Alone Triumphs". This phrase comes from the ancient Mundaka Upanishad. It reminds both the government and citizens to value honesty, justice, and righteousness in daily life.

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What is the State Language of Uttarakhand?

Hindi is the main official language for daily conversations and government work in Uttarakhand. The state of Uttarakhand was the first in India to make Sanskrit its second official language. People also speak regional languages such as Garhwali and Kumaoni, but Hindi and Sanskrit reflect Uttarakhand’s strong Vedic and educational traditions.

What is the State Sweet of Uttarakhand?

Bal Mithai may not be officially named by the government like the state bird or flower, but it is still known as the "State Sweet". This treat comes from Almora and is a brown, chocolate-like fudge made with roasted khoya and covered in tiny white sugar balls.

What is the State Sport of Uttarakhand?

Football became the state sport of Uttarakhand in 2011. People in the state, especially in the hills and among young people, have loved the game for many years. Many players from Uttarakhand have played for India, and the sport is encouraged to help build fitness and teamwork in the region.

What is the State Fish of Uttarakhand?

The Golden Mahseer is often called the "Tiger of the Mountain Rivers". This impressive fish lives in the clean, cold waters of the Ganges and its tributaries. It represents a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Sadly, it is endangered, so making it a state fish helps encourage conservation.

What is the State Vegetable of Uttarakhand?

People often talk about Kandali (Stinging Nettle) alongside other local greens, but it is usually seen as the main one. This wild plant becomes very nutritious and rich in iron when cooked. It stands for the strength of mountain communities and their tradition of using wild forest foods.

What is the State Emblem of Uttarakhand?

The State Emblem has a diamond-shaped shield with a white background and blue borders. It displays three Himalayan mountain peaks, with the holy River Ganga flowing below. The Ashoka Lion Capital is at the top, and the national motto appears at the bottom.

What is the State Butterfly of Uttarakhand?

The Common Peacock (Papilio bianor) became the state butterfly in 2016. Its large size and shimmering wings, which look like a peacock's tail, make it easy to spot. This butterfly lives in the state's lush greenery and stands for Uttarakhand's rich biodiversity and clean environment.

What is the State Animal of Uttarakhand?

The Alpine Musk Deer is a shy and rare animal that lives in the high Himalayas. It is well known for the strong-smelling musk it produces. These deer are great at climbing rocky slopes.

Conclusion

Uttarakhand is truly a "Devbhumi," a place where nature and culture come together. From the sacred Brahma Kamal in the high mountains to the lively sound of the Dhol, each state symbol shares a story of strength and beauty. 

These symbols are not just official emblems; they show the identity of the Himalayan people and the rich wildlife we need to protect.

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