University lecturer Rabindranath Lackhan employs his more than 30 years of research and botany in documenting the symbolic meanings, as well as the myriad uses of plants in Hindu religious ceremonies, in his book Plants of Religious Significance: The Hindu Perspective.The text comes complete with full colour illustrations of both plants and Hindu deities, as well as accurately detailed descriptions of the diverse species of the plants presented. The 108 page book also gives insight into the significance of various plants in relation to Hindu religious practices, including puja and weddings.
The bamboo stands out as he describes, "the bamboo bowing shows that even the giants among men should humble to God."The text begins by listing the 16 stages of the Hindu religious ceremony known as puja, and most of the plants listed are required for that specific ceremony. It also lists variations of the puja ceremony. However, since Lakhan failed to give a definition of the puja, any reader who knew nothing about the puja would be clueless as to the significance of the ceremony, and would need to do further research-a situation which the author could have easily avoided by providing some background information.
Lackhan not only tells what plants are used, but how they are used, and gives an enchanting history as to the names and stories from the Hindu religion behind the plants. Lackhan also reveals the different beliefs associated with each plant.It also discloses which plants are favoured by some Hindu deities, and exposes the reader to the purpose of utilising these plants in worship. It gives details of the medicinal value of the plants presented, and would be a good addition to the library of Hindu homes. It will also prove an informative asset to students of religion, practising Hindus, and laypersons who wish to broaden their knowledge on plants used in the Hindu religion.