Marigolds

These flowers have a special place in Hindu worship and culture. They are often strung into ornate and beautiful garlands which are used to decorate shrines or as offerings in the temples.

Various meanings have been attributed to the flower, and hence for its significance in worship. Some say its saffron/orange colour signifies renunciation, others that its sturdy stem symbolizes a trust in the divine and a will to overcome obstacles.

The use of marigolds in homes, whether to decorate a shrine or simply to garland a doorway, has another more practical benefit too, as the unpleasant odour helps to keep insects and other pests at bay. For me the sight of these beautiful golden flowers piled up in the markets and draped over statues and shrines will be one of the abiding memories of our visit to Goa.