A street vendor sitting in a garden of dangling garlands in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: SAMUEL ONG/The Star
Since time immemorial, garlands have been an intrinsic part of Hindu culture.
A symbol of piety, devotion, purity and beauty, flower garlands are frequently used in worship.
On a walk along Jalan Tun Sambanthan in Brickfields, one will be greeted with a profusion of vivid colours bursting from the row of 20 stalls lining this street in Little India.
The art of making garlands still plays a significant role today.
Being one of the most popular offerings made to deities as a mark of devotion, these fresh floral garlands adorn deities, altars and temples.
Symbolising entwined spirituality and respect for each other, garlands are a must at Hindu weddings too.
The bride and groom exchange garlands, acknowledging the merging and coming together of two families.
Wedding garlands are usually made using fragrant flowers like jasmine and rose as well as vibrant colours such as red, green and yellow paired with white.
Leaves are also used, such as tulsi, which is believed to emit positive vibrations.
(Above)
A street vendor sitting in a garden of dangling garlands in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: SAMUEL ONG/The Star
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A profusion of jasmine, chrysanthemum and marigold which are top favourites.
Traditionally, garlands are strung together from banana fibre but wool and raffia are also used.
Crimson red roses are popular additions to garlands.
A mist of water to keep the flowers fresh.
A seller hard at work stringing flowers into garlands.
