The tradition of buying flowers for loved ones dates back to many centuries. In ancient civilizations flowers were offered to Gods and placed in temples. Flowers are kept on graves of loved ones. It is used for fragrance and decorations. It is offered as a gift to newlyweds. Men offer flowers to their women as a token of love. People take flowers with them when they visit someone. Flowers are given to patients recovering from illness as a get well soon gesture. There are many ways flowers are used in our everyday lives. Every country has its own tradition of using flowers.
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Flowers are found in different colours, types and fragrance. Every colour of flowers is significant. In different cultures flowers represent different meanings. In every country people incorporates flowers in their lives in unique ways. Every country has its own national flower too.
Here are some examples how flowers are part of Pakistani culture in their own unique ways:
Pakistan:
In Pakistan there are various ways we use flowers. The national flower of Pakistan is jasmine which is white in colour and has attractive fragrance. Flowers are incorporated in our cultural and social fabrics.
Jasmine:
It's scientific name is 'Jasminum Officinale'. Jasmine being our national flowers symbolize purity, beauty and elegance. It is star shaped blossom. They are very delicate and have very strong fragrance. It has its own significance in Pakistani culture. It is used in making garland for newlyweds to represent love and commitment. They are used as jewellery for women on special occasions.
Roses:
Giving rose to loved ones expresses romance, friendship and love. Red roses are well received as it signifies love, passion and celebrations. They are believed to bring good luck. These flowers are used for decorating wedding venues, newlyweds' bedrooms and cars. They are sprinkled on graves of loved ones. Put on shrines or tombs.
Marigold:
It has bright yellow colour which is used for decorating homes during festivities like weddings and Eids, used as garlands and put on shrines. etc. It lasts longer than other flowers and is not delicate.
Lilies and lotus flower:
These flowers have their own unique significance. They each represent loyalty and devotion. They are used in ceremonies or decorations.
Flowers are used to make lots things like
- Rose sprays
- Rose fragrance
- Rose water
- Food essence
- Food colouring
- For dyes
- Dry petals for decoration
- used in making soaps
- Beauty products
- Medicine etc
Conclusion:
Being deeply integrated into the customs and traditions of Pakistani culture, flowers are not only important for its aesthetic appeal, it also has symbolic meaning in the poetry and literature of Urdu language (National language of Pakistan). It can make any celebrations or important days memorable. It's also found in paintings and is used in festivities too, making them an important part of Pakistani cultural identity.
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I wish I could received flowers too.