Creeper “Madhavi Lata” has grown into a 30 feet high “Laughing
Buddha” along the façade of our house, facing the main entrance. And according
to Chinese folklore a “Laughing Buddha” facing the entrance of the house brings
lots of luck and prosperity to all the household members!!! In the above
picture you can see a portion of our house with gigantic “Madhavi Lata” creeper
in the form of “Laughing Buddha”.
“Madhavi Lata” is a woody high climbing vine with clusters of
very attractive fragrant flowers. The flowers have very attractive shape and
the fragrance is very strong, pleasant and resembles a fruity perfume. The
fragrance is said to improve sensuality and emotional comfort. The plant and its
name have long and interesting history, of which I wrote in my blog on 25th
October 2009. You may read this article titled “Madhavi Lata” by clicking on the
following link:
And “Laughing Buddha” is actually known as Hotei or Pu-Tai in
China. He was a very kind and popular Chinese monk who lived over thousand
years ago and has become a significant part of Buddhist and Shinto culture.
Because of his benevolent nature as a monk, he came to be regarded as an
incarnation of the Bodhisattva. His large protruding stomach and a broad smile
have earned him the nickname of “Laughing Buddha”. The “Laughing Buddha’s”
images are said to grace Chinese Temples, houses, restaurants and are said to
be found everywhere in China. Today many forms of “Laughing Buddha” are sold as
deities even in Hyderabad. It is widely believed that placing various types of
idols of “Laughing Buddha” in the house are very beneficial!
The form of “Laughing Buddha” growing in our house has made us
all happy! and has prompted me to write this article.
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