During solemn occasions and festivals, it is customary to place garlands or 'Vandanbaras' at the main entrance of the home. In Indian culture, the significance of a garland extends beyond mere home decoration; it symbolizes prosperity, affluence in the house, and warding off negativity, thereby promoting positivity.
Therefore, during festivals and auspicious events, it is recommended to decorate the main entrance with natural elements such as mango and ashoka leaves, rather than plastic items.
This raises the question of why only mango and ashoka leaves are used to create garlands, instead of leaves from trees like neem, peepal, or banyan. The answer is that garlands are always made from the leaves of fruit-bearing and beneficial trees. Banana leaves are also used in some places.
The main entrance is considered the most important part of the house, through which all family members and guests pass. Thus, the cleanliness and positive energy of the main entrance influence everyone who enters the home. Therefore, great attention is paid to maintaining a positive atmosphere at the entrance.
Mango leaves are used when setting up a Kalash, performing worship, and conducting auspicious rituals. The mango tree provides fruit, shade, and greenery, so it is associated with life, fertility, and abundance. Its green leaves symbolize freshness and a new beginning.
In Indian tradition, the Ashoka tree is linked to well-being and joy. The word 'Ashoka' itself means absence of sorrow. It is precisely because of this symbolic meaning that ashoka leaves are used during ceremonial events.
Marigold flowers are widely used in Indian religious practices and festivals. Their bright yellow and orange colors symbolize enthusiasm, energy, joy, and good wishes. Yellow color in religious traditions is associated with knowledge and well-being, while orange is associated with enthusiasm and spiritual energy.
Furthermore, the yellow color of marigolds reflects the earthly element, indicating stability in life. The yellow color also represents the planetary deity Guru Brihaspati, bringing a surge of energy and optimism into life.