Seeds, Plants and Fruit – Some of India’s Most Fascinating Lucky Symbols and Beliefs

India’s rich cultural heritage is as diverse as it is inclusive. Across religions, ethnic and linguistic groups, the nation’s belief in lucky charms, fortunate traditions and some pure superstitions is what makes daily life fascinating.

Study Presents Desi Outlook on Pursuing Luck and Abundance

To an outsider, foreign to India’s mindset, the paradox of a nation with high literacy rate and strong belief in ancient customs and traditions might be a difficult one to grasp. A recent scholarly review of some essential religious practices and superstitions reveals the long list of icons, symbols and habits that are believed to bring fortune and abundance in our lives.

Some lucky charms can be seen around the office, others are carried around on a trip or held tight in one’s hand when playing Indian online casino or other casino games online. Many are considered crucial when choosing a house, starting a new business or hoping to get lucky in love.

Curiously enough, quite a few auspicious symbols are tied to the traditional importance of plants in desi culture – flowers, fruit, even seeds and roots. Those that bring fortune and wellbeing are mostly recognised across the Union, although some are regional and depending on religion, state of context.

Black Chirmi beads, for example, are the most auspicious of all. Coming from Aravali Mountain, they find the proper owners and never stay with an unlucky person. Black Chirmi are one of Lakshmi’s symbols and many of us keep them in our purses or wallets, even in office drawers, keeping fortune and wealth close by. People say they repel evil eye and most physical dangers as well.

Rudraksha seeds, when dried, are also regularly used as a prayer bead. Hindus recognise their protective powers against negative energy and misfortune but other cultures have also adopted them over the years.

The Sidh Swetark Ganesh root is also known for its mystic powers. Often growing into the shape of Lord Ganesha, the root is a popular lucky charm wherever easily available. The shrub itself is associated with Shiva and is known for bringing wisdom, improving concentration and chasing away negative energy from one’s house.

Fruit that Brings Fortune and Wellbeing

Around the nation, fresh fruit is a traditional altar gift to the gods. Recommended by Hindu and Buddhism alike (as well as Feng Shui), it is also placed on dining tables to draw in abundance. Whenever fresh fruit is not easily available, people tend to display paintings or other art and fruit decorations.

Peaches, for one, symbolize immortality, and are associated with money and abundance, as well as long and healthy life. Pomegranates are very lucky as well, especially for those looking to have kids. Other red fruit is also popular, like apples, although mostly in the North where they are grown. The South has pineapples, oranges or grapes symbolizing luck, wealth and prosperity.

Money Attracting Plants

While the lotus is above all other flowers – in religion, symbolism and cultural significance – there are a number of other plants which are thought to bring positive vibes and financial benefits. Often combined with Vaastu Shastra, people’s houses, gardens and workspaces are graced by their presence and fortunate energy.

Almost every household in India has a Holy Basil in it, whether in rural or urban settings. Placed in an Eastern or Northern position, it is said to bring health and wealth to the house. That is also true of the Money Tree, with its trunks twisted and tied in a braid, and the typical lucky five leaves. We should not forget the Chinese money plant, with round leaves reminiscent of coins, arranged in special corners of the house to let in luck and abundance.

The Baby Jade plant is placed near the entrance to usher in prosperity, especially by business owners. Devil’s Ivy is a climber plant, with leaves like hearts, which brings good fortune and purifies indoor air. Luck and wealth is also favoured by the Rubber plant and the Spider plant. Last but not least, Lucky bamboo is already a global symbol of abundance and fortune, and is found in houses everywhere.