The Parijaat tree of Kintur, Barabanki, is a one-of-a-kind tree that has an origin story tracing back to the Mahabharat. Placed under a peerless category by scientists, this seedless and fruitless tree cannot be propagated by any means known to mankind. If this tree has nudged your scientific curiosity or religious penchants, then plan a visit today to eternally encapsulate this botanical marvel in your memory.
A tale as old as time
Hindu folklore states that this tree emerged during ‘Samudra Manthan’ and was taken by Lord Indra, king of heaven, to adorn the paradise. However, over time, myriad stories of its return to Earth have found acceptance among the local population. While these stories are of little historical significance, they are believed by the majority as these myths provide an answer for something about which science has found no explanation.
A popular story believed by some, states that Kunti’s third-born, Arjun, brought this tree back from heaven on the advice of Lord Krishna. Kunti used to offer and crown Lord Shiva with flowers that blossomed on this tree, in the temple located adjacent to it. Consequently, it is believed that the village where the Parijaat tree is now located, was named Kintur, after the mother of Pandavs, Kunti.
Another set of people, especially those who are well-versed with Ramananda Sagar’s ‘Krishna’, conform with the tale that Lord Krishna brought this tree from heaven for His beloved queen, Satyabhama. Adding an iota of truth to these stories is the Harivansha Purana, which states that the Parijaat tree is a type of Kalpvraksh, a wish-fulfilling tree, found only in heaven.
The perimeter of the trunk of the Parijaat tree is around 50 feet and it stands at a height of around 45 feet. A popular belief states that the branches of this tree do not break or dry out, rather they shrink and disappear into the original trunk. The local people consider the Parijaat tree to be their protector and they pay homage to it by protecting its leaves and flowers at all costs.
A tree that perplexes science
Kept under a special category of seedless and fruitless trees, the Parijaat tree is unique and unisexual. Even its branch cuttings cannot be used to reproduce it. However, Indian mythology believes that the tree cannot bear fruit or reproduce because, when the tree was being taken back to Earth, it was cursed by Lord Indra.
It is said that the leaves of this tree located on the lower portion have five tips like the fingers of a hand, while the leaves on the upper reaches have seven tips. The five-petalled white flower of Parijaat, which takes on a golden tinge when drying out, is a beauty to behold. The Parijaat blossoms occasionally, usually after the festival of Ganga Dussehra, when it spreads its fragrance far and wide.
How to reach
The most feasible way to travel to Kintur village is by road in a private vehicle. If you choose public transport, then the buses of Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation can take you to the Ramnagar town of Barabanki district, which is 11 km away from Kintur. The remaining journey can then be covered via local transport, such as three-wheelers or jeeps, which are available from 6 AM to 7 PM. Please keep in mind that visitors are not allowed to touch the tree to prevent it from any kind of harm or damage.
Knock Knock
For now, the majestic and serene aura of the Parijaat tree has escaped the dire clutches of rapid commercialisation. If a long drive to a place that calms your mind and body is your idea of a perfect getaway, then you have to head here! The exquisite beauty, rich history, ardent faith and confounding curiosity of old-world charms is awaiting your presence.
