Banana plant: In Hinduism

 Our holy scriptures have always included plants and animals for different reasons. They have a direct relation with Gods and Goddesses. Banana is known as ‘kadali’ in Sanskrit and the entire banana plant is considered sacred.

Rishi Durvasa once cursed his wife to turn into a banana plant as she interrupted his sleep. She pleaded with him for a wish that she should be treated special and as a holy plant. Since that day, the leaves of banana trees are considered sacred in Hindu culture.

Banana plant is considered equivalent to ‘Devaguru Brihaspati’. The individuals who can’t afford Yellow Sapphire gemstone can wear the root of the tree. The roots of the tree are tied with yellow thread and worn on the index finger.

There is a traditional custom in Hindu religion to decorate the entrance of the marriage hall and the house of the bridegroom and bride with two banana trees. It symbolises that the married life of the couple would be evergreen and full of love.

During the Durga Puja, in Bengal, a form of Goddess is created with banana plantain which is known as Kola Bou. She is considered as the bride of Lord Ganesha. She is given a bath before evening and placed next to Lord Ganesha on the day of Maha Saptami.

The banana plant symbolises Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi as it is believed that Lord Vishnu resides in it. The eleventh day of the bright half of pausa (December-January) is considered to be very auspicious for offering banana to Lord Vishnu and Laxmi Ji.

Every part of the plant is useful. Fruit– in curing diarrhoea,dysentery Core of stem- in stomach upset and diabetes. Flower –to treat dysentery, ulcers, and bronchitis Roots and Seeds– Treat digestive disorders young leaves – placed as plaster on burns and skin ailment.