Marigold, humble, cheerful and abundant. Not a part of expensive bouquets, yet impossible to ignore. Known as genda in Hindi, the marigold is one of India’s most democratic flowers. It grows easily, blooms generously, survives heat, dust, and neglect, and finds a place everywhere, from temples to mazars, weddings to vegetable markets and political rallies. Marigolds are woven into the everyday life of India. They are truly the flowers of the people.

Marigolds bloom in shades of yellow and orange. In cities and villages around India, you can see strings of marigold garlands outside homes, shops, temples, and wedding venues. Associated with auspiciousness, marigolds are an essential part of festival decorations. They adorn idols, entrances, and courtyards, creating a festive atmosphere. A garland of marigolds can express respect, celebration, devotion, and welcome. This versatility may explain why marigolds have remained popular for centuries.

No discussion of marigolds is complete without remembering one of Hindi cinema’s most delightful comic moments.

In the classic film Chupke Chupke, the ever-confused Professor of English, Sukumar Sinha, played brilliantly by Amitabh Bachchan, is subjected to botanical questions. Among them comes the unforgettable query:

“Gende ka phool phool hokar bhi phool kyun nahin hota(genda is a flower, yet it is not a flower? Why?”

The bewildered professor struggles to answer while viewers burst into laughter.

The marigold found another memorable place in popular culture through the song Sasural Genda Phool from the film Delhi-6. Based on a traditional folk song, it compares a woman’s marital home to a marigold flower. The metaphor is beautifully Indian. A marigold is colourful, crowded with petals, sometimes chaotic, yet full of warmth and life, much like a large joint family.

The song captures the laughter, adjustments, affection, and occasional confusion of life in a new household. Its catchy tune made the marigold bloom once again in popular imagination.

Gardeners value marigolds for another reason. They are useful companion plants. Their strong scent helps deter certain pests, making them favourites in kitchen gardens and vegetable patches. They are also easy to grow. Marigolds do not demand special treatment. Provide them with sun and moist, well-draining soil, and they flourish without fuss.

Whatever the Botanists say, gende ka phool, phool hi hota hai(A marigold flower is a flower).