In many indigenous cultures, trees are considered sacred because of their connections to mythology, religion, and folklore. Several of them are associated with specific Gods. One such tree connected to Lord Krishna is the Kadamba. The flowers are used in traditional festivals and as offerings in temples. The tree is enrolled in "Nakshathra Vana," which generally corresponds to the constellation Aquarii and represents "Satabhisha" (a binary star system).
This sacred tree is connected to a wide variety of beliefs. According to folklore, Lord Indra killed the demon, Vrinda. Indra was instructed to seek the holiest place on Earth in order to cast off his curse. He supposedly travelled the globe, but his curse was only lifted when he passed an area rich with Kadamba trees. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna in North India while being connected to Parvathi in the South. Many of Sri Krishna's divine acts (leelas), it is thought, were carried out in Vrindavan beneath the shade of Kadamba trees. With the unique globular blossoms of the tree, he liked to play with his pals in the surroundings of these trees in Vrindavan. As a result, the tree is also known as Haripriya, the favourite of God. Another legend holds that Kadamba trees were a favourite place for Goddess Durga Devi to reside. She was an embodiment of Devi Parvathi and a radiant beauty.
Numerous celebrations are related to the tree, including the well-known harvest festival "Karam-Kadamba," also known as "Posatt" or the "Koral parba," is held on the eleventh lunar day of the Bhadra month. Agricultural communities in West Bengal and Odisha observe the Kadam festival by ceremonially planting Kadam saplings in the month of Bhadra.
Additionally, kadamb plants play a significant role in our natural medicines. The roots are used as an aphrodisiac as well as a treatment for respiratory problems, fever, muscle pain, toxic bites, and gynaecological abnormalities. Rheumatic pain is treated with the bark. The leaves are used to heal ulcers and reduce pain and swelling. Jaundice can be treated using leaf juice. Fruit juice is regarded as a useful lactation aid. A mouth rinse made from leaf extract is also used.
A deciduous tree with light-yellow blossoms, kadamb can reach heights of 10 to 15 metres. In practically all of India's tropical regions, especially near streams, trees can be found growing. The other names in Tamil are Neer Kadambu and Manjal Kadambu.