Lotus ~ Nelumbo Nucipera Gaertn:
Lotus is the National Flower of India. It is a sacred flower and occupies a unique position in the art and mythology of ancient India. The lotus (Sanskrit: ‘padma’) is a symbol of purity and fecundity in the Indian tradition . Lotus is revered in many ancient religions like Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. In Hindu mythology, it is associated with several important deities like Lord Brahma, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu and Goddess Saraswati. The logo of the Church of South India (CSI) is a cross superimposed on a stylized lotus.