Natore: The rare spring flower Parijat has bloomed on the premises of Uttara Ganabhaban, captivating visitors who are flocking to the 18th-century royal palace, also known as Dighapatia Palace, during the Eid holidays. The phenomenon has attracted significant attention, as the blooming Parijat creates a unique and mesmerizing environment.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the buzzing of thousands of bees around the flowers has added to the allure, creating an enchanting atmosphere for the visitors. Those who venture across the lake along the entrance path of Uttara Ganabhaban will encounter two century-old Parijat flower trees. These trees stand approximately seven metres tall and spread like an umbrella, offering a wide shade with their dense canopy of leaves that prevents sunlight and heat from reaching the ground below. The Parijat tree's stem and branches bear resemblance to the Ashoka tree.
The leaves of the Parijat tree are notable for their formation, with young leaves resembling those of a banana tree, adding to the tree's distinctive appearance. In Bengali literature, the Parijat flower has been celebrated in poems and songs for its unique features and beauty. Renowned novelist Bipradash Baraua in his book 'Gachhpala Tarulata' mentioned that the Deborshi Narada brought the Parijat from heaven, and it was gifted by Shri Krishna to his wife. National poet Kazi Nazrul and Rabindranath Tagore have also referenced the Parijat flower in their works, highlighting its cultural significance.
Uttara Ganabhaban's official Noor Mohammad noted that there are a total of six Parijat flower trees in the palace, with the two trees on the left side after crossing the entrance being over two hundred years old from the king's era. The district administration has initiated efforts to propagate this rare tree by producing saplings. During the Eid holidays, on average, five thousand visitors are drawn to the site daily, enchanted by the Parijat's beauty.
Asmaul Husna, a student from the Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences at Islamic University, Kushtia, expressed her admiration, stating, "I come to Ganabhaban every year at this time because of the beauty of Parijat. I keep coming back." Natore Deputy Commissioner and Uttara Ganabhaban Management Committee President Asma Shaheen commented on the influx of visitors, noting that despite the scorching heat, thousands are visiting the royal palace every day during the Eid holidays. For many, the spring flowers symbolize peace, providing a serene retreat amidst the festivities.