An overview of the State symbols of Gujarat

The State Bird of Gujarat- The Greater Flamingo 

The greater flamingo is the state bird of Gujarat. It is the chief of the whole flamingo family. The Kutch desert sanctuary of Gujarat state located in Bhuj is quite popular for its flamingo city. People who visit the place witness many flamingo birds that mostly stay together in their respective groups. The greater flamingo has selective habitats as they require salty lagoons, deep water, and the sea to survive. They dislike noise while breeding and even migrate from one place to another during winter to stay in a warmer place. 

The Greater Flamingo is a noisy bird known for its voice. The bird uses their vocals to connect with its groups whenever it falls apart. These are vocal birds that communicate with each other by generating deep honking sounds like a goose. They call very quietly while feeding; otherwise, they have loud calls during courtship. They often stand on one leg. By doing this, they keep their hidden legs warm under their feathers. The plumage of the greater flamingo is usually pinkish, white-coloured along with red covert wing and primary black and secondary flight feathers. The long downward bending bills and legs of the state bird of Gujarat are pink with black tips. It has peculiar-shaped heads, curved necks with unique low bends, with yellow -coloured eyes.

The state bird lives outside the tropical region and migrates during winter to warmer climates. Gujarat’s state bird is often found in various saltwater habitats: alkaline lakes, shallow coastal lagoons, estuaries, and mudflats. It rarely colonises freshwater. The breeding population of the Greater Flamingo survives at different places or locations. Although, the upcoming period may witness an increase in the number of the state bird of Gujarat. 

The State Flower Of Gujarat 

Marigold is the state flower of Gujarat. The flower grows in many countries that appreciate its beauty. The Portuguese discovered the flower in the 16th century in Central America. Sometimes, the shape and colour of a marigold flower depend on the amount of heat passed by the sun. The flower generally needs a mild climate to have a luxuriant growth, for which temperature should range between 18-20 degrees Celsius. 

It belongs to the sunflower family and can grow anywhere. It has more than 100 leaves in its flowery body. Marigolds are very useful in producing garlands for religious purposes, etc. The flower is widely used for wedding decoration, adding a spark to the place. It is mainly available in the summer season that mainly grows and cultivates with all soil varieties. However, Gujarat’s state flower consists of distinctive colours such as gold, orange, yellow and red. The flower has a strong smell and is useful for various cosmetics products. Its types consist of Pot Marigold, Mule Marigold, Signet Marigold etc.

Moreover, Marigold is instrumental in producing medicines for various skin and eye diseases. The liquid extracted from marigold helps cure headaches, toothache, corn, stomach pain, swelling, injuries, and warts. Marigold lotion or cream helps heal skin infections. The application of the flower’s oil or mixture helps in healing injuries. Marigold’s pigment is useful in colouring food items. The oil is often useful to produce perfume. Hence, the state flower of Gujarat provides multiple benefits to people upon its application.  

The State tree of Gujarat

The Banyan tree is the National tree of Gujarat, also known as Vatvriksh, Barh and Bargad. Such trees are mostly present near temples or farm areas. It is a large tree with heavy trunks and deep roots. The Banyan tree represents Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. As part of their religious beliefs, Hindus worship the tree, hoping to see Lord Krishna inside the leaf of the tree. 

The Banyan tree’s leaves are large and oval in shape. The people of Gujarat say that Banyan tree leaves provide shade to the people. It is the home of several species that live inside its body. The tree is often useful in producing certain medicines giving relief from joint pain, tooth problems, skin diseases, rashes, etc.

Conclusion 

Henceforth, these are the major state symbols of Gujarat, comprising the state bird of Gujarat, the state flower of Gujarat, and Gujarat’s national tree. All these symbols are primary symbols of the state of Gujarat. The Greater Flamingo is the largest flamingo bird of its family, which communicates through deep honking sounds like Goose in their group. The Marigold flower is the state flower of Gujarat, mainly acknowledged for its beauty and benefits. And the National Banyan tree of Gujarat has a long-lasting impact on the Gujarati community, defining it as a merchant that provides shade to people.