The truth behind the word Saffron

The word Saffron has become synonymous to Hinduism. To the point where the word seems more like a derogatory term. Let's understand the real meaning of the word Saffron and its origin. Saffron is the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus flower, Crocus sativus. It is usually used as an ingredient in cooking but the word Saffron has become a symbol of Indian Nationalism. <br><br>Saffron is a Sanskrit word derived from केशर (Kesar) which is itself derived from the Arabic word زعفران (Za'farān). The term "saffron" is derived from the Latin "safranum" which itself is derived from the Arabic word "zaafaran". <br><br>The Saffron flag has been the symbol of India since ancient times. We can see the description of the Saffron flag in the Bhagavata Purana, Rig Veda, Bhagavad Gita, and the Manusmriti. The British East India Company adopted the Saffron flag in 1880 as the emblem of the organisation.<br><br>Saffron is used in the process of creating originally copies of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The oldest surviving copy of the Sanskrit version of the Mahabharata, called the oldest surviving manuscript of the Sanskrit version of the epic, dates back to the 12th century AD and was discovered in southern India. It is purple in colour and has golden letters, gold dust, and saffron ink.<br><br>Saffron is used to dye the clothes of Gods and Goddesses in the temple. It is an essential ingredient in Hindu rituals and ceremonies. The red colour of Saffron represents power, strength and purity. It also symbolizes peace and tranquility. The colour of Saffron has been the symbol of India for centuries.<br><br>The founding fathers of India adopted the tricolour with the Saffron at the top of the flag, symbolising the country's connection with its past and the centuries old traditions of India.<br><br>So stop telling us to give up on the word Saffron. We are proud of our Saffron legacy and are proud of the power and strength it symbolises.<br><br>Jai Hind!