The national flower of India is the Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) . It is an aquatic herb that is often termed as Padma in Sanskrit and enjoys a sacred status among the Indian culture. It has been an integral part of the Indian culture from time immemorial and occupies a unique position in the art and mythology of ancient India. The lotus flower is a symbol of divine beauty and is often used as a simile to describe beautiful women. It is considered sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism. Many Hindu deities like Brahma, Lakshmi, and Saraswati are depicted to be seated on a lotus flower. In Buddhist philosophy, the lotus represents the preservability of purity of one’s soul amidst the grime of mortal life. The lotus flower is also associated with the path to spiritual awakening and enlightenment. The Indian government website mentions Lotus as the National Flower of India.