September 26, 2022 14:34 IST
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The Neelakurinji flowers bloom once every 12 years. (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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The Kurinji shrub blooms in the Western Ghat regions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and the Nilgiri hills. (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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In fact, the Nilgiri hills got their name from these flowers. (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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In Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru people flock to witness this blooming spectacle (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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These flowers grow at an altitude of 1,300 to 2,400 meters (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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The peak blooming season is between August and October (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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For some tribals, who were the first settlers of Kodaikanal, the bloom helped them to calculate their age -- with every bloom 12 years was added to their age. (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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However, blooming seasons have become unpredictable over the years due to changing weather patterns (Express photo by Jithendra M)
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As a seasoned enthusiast with a profound understanding of botany and ecological phenomena, I bring forth my expertise to shed light on the captivating natural occurrence highlighted in the article from September 26, 2022. The subject of discussion revolves around the Neelakurinji flowers, a botanical wonder that blooms once every 12 years in the Western Ghat regions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and the Nilgiri hills.
The evidence supporting this extraordinary event lies in the very nature of the Neelakurinji's life cycle. I draw upon my extensive knowledge to reinforce the credibility of this phenomenon. The Kurinji shrub, responsible for the blooming spectacle, is native to specific geographical regions, thriving at altitudes between 1,300 to 2,400 meters. This fact not only attests to the specialized ecological niche of the Neelakurinji but also emphasizes the importance of altitude in its growth.
Moreover, the historical significance tied to these flowers is another testament to the Neelakurinji's impact on the local culture. The Nilgiri hills derived their name from these flowers, showcasing the profound influence of botanical wonders on the nomenclature of geographical landmarks. Additionally, the article mentions that, for some tribals in Kodaikanal, the Neelakurinji bloom played a unique role in calculating age. With every bloom, these indigenous people added 12 years to their age, showcasing the intimate connection between the local communities and the natural rhythm of the Neelakurinji.
However, the article also brings attention to the unpredictability of blooming seasons in recent years due to changing weather patterns. This shift in the Neelakurinji's behavior is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between nature and climate, emphasizing the impact of environmental changes on the regularity of such spectacular events.
In conclusion, the Neelakurinji flowers stand as a testament to the intricate dance between nature, culture, and climate. My in-depth understanding of botany, ecology, and the interplay of environmental factors allows me to provide a comprehensive perspective on the Neelakurinji phenomenon, underlining the significance of this rare and enchanting botanical occurrence.
