Located around 40 kilometers away from the Barabanki headquarters, the Mahabharata-era mythical divine Parijata tree has currently turned into a major center of attraction for worshippers of Lord Shiva. The golden-hued flowers blooming on this historic heritage tree are particularly captivating for tourists. It is widely believed that these blossoms are immensely dear to Lord Shiva, which is why devotees are extremely eager to offer these flowers to the deity during the auspicious month of Sawan. According to tradition, keeping Parijata flowers at home after offering them to Lord Shiva is believed to bring prosperity and abundance.
Following a defoliation period of about four months, the tree first sprouted lush green foliage and is now adorned with thousands of golden-hued flowers that are enchanting visitors coming to pay their respects to Lord Lodheshwar. Tourists arriving at the site are frequently capturing selfies with these beautiful blossoms. People also attempt to take the flowers along with them as locals believe that possessing Parijata flowers brings mental peace and wealth, making visitors quite enthusiastic to secure a few petals.
The temple priest, Bharat Das, explained that this Parijata tree is one of the fourteen celestial gems that emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean. During the period of exile, Arjuna brought the Parijata tree from the celestial realm for his mother Kunti and established it here. Priest Bharat Das further shared that it was with these very Parijata flowers that mother Kunti worshipped Lord Shiva, which ultimately blessed the Pandavas with victory in the Mahabharata war.
Regarding the site management, District Forest Officer Akash Deep Badhawan stated that the Parijata tree located in the Barabanki district holds immense mythological significance. In view of the increasing number of pilgrims visiting the Parijata during the month of Sawan, the regional forest officer has been instructed to ensure proper convenience and amenities for the visitors.
The Parijata tree holds immense importance not only due to its ecological biodiversity but also because of the deep faith people repose in it. To ensure that visitors are well aware of the significance of the Parijata tree, informative signage boards have been installed at various spots, and the forest department continuously monitors and maintains this ancient tree. With the assistance of scientists from the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, the tree undergoes regular medical treatment and preservation efforts.
