Bengaluru: Dr Nirmala K S, a Professor in the Horticultural Department of Gandhi Krishi Vigyan Kendra (GKVK) or University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bengaluru is well-known for her keen interest in the world of Jasmines apart from various accomplishments in the field. In fact, her Ph D thesis was on Jasmines, making a thorough study of the varieties of Jasmines available in the state of Karnataka. She takes us to the world of Jasmines briefing about the types, characteristics and regions they are grown in.
A few flowers captivate the senses like Jasmine: Dr Nirmala K S explains, “In the world of flora, few flowers can captivate the senses quite like jasmine. With its delicate blossoms and intoxicating fragrance, Jasmine has earned its place as a beloved and revered flower across cultures and continents. Jasmine is one of the most important fragrant flowers used in India, even from very ancient days…
…Jasmine is an Arabic name that is said to have originated from ‘Yasmin’ and it is called by different names in different parts of India – Mallige, Mogra, Motia, Chameli, Malli puvvu, Jaati, Mulla, Juhi, Mogra or Moonlight in the grove. It is known for its attractive, white-coloured and fragrant flower and has pride of place in the heart of every South Indian woman. There are about 90 species of jasmine, each with its unique characteristics. These species vary in appearance, fragrance, and uses, but they all share an exceptional allure. Jasmines are commercially cultivated for their flowers in the Southern and Eastern parts of India. Major jasmine-producing states in India are Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.”
Well-known for making garlands: “Jasmine flowers, known for their fragrance are used for making garland. Garlands are being used for personal adorning by women, worshipping God and other auspicious occasions as it has aesthetic value. Flowers and buds are used for bouquets, and vent/veni preparation. Jasmine flowers are occasionally used in culinary applications, such as flavouring tea and rice dishes, adding a delightful floral note to these delicacies. Essential oil is extracted from the fragrant flowers of jasmine and has great demand in the international market for the perfumery industry. The natural oils of jasmine are used in high-grade perfume and invariably most of the superior perfumes contain at least a small quantity of jasmine oil”, elaborates Dr Nirmala K S.
The fragrance is the beauty and uniqueness: She asserts, “The main beauty and uniqueness of jasmine is its fragrance, which cannot be imitated by any known synthetic aromatic chemical and hence it has a unique status in the perfume world. Jasmine fragrance is said to give a feeling of optimism confidence and euphoria. It is also helpful against depression, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions. Jasmine is also used for cough, laryngitis, dysmenorrhea, labour pains, uterine disorders and many skin problems. One of the most popular applications of jasmine is in the world of tea. Jasmine tea, a green tea infused with jasmine blossoms, is celebrated for its soothing aroma and taste.”
No dearth of varieties in the state: Dr Nirmala K S informs, “A number of varieties of Jasmine species are grown all over the Karnataka state. The important jasmine cultivars grown in the state are Gundu Mallige (Botanical name: Jasminum sambac), Jaji Mallige (Botanical name: Jasminum grandiflorum), Kakada (Botanical name: Jasminum multiflorum) and Sooji Mallige (Botanical name: Jasminum auriculatum Vanl.)…
…Diverse forms are noticed both among wild and cultivated species. Such diversity is noticed to a larger extent in cultivated forms, especially in J. Sambac which is commonly called Gundu Mallige. There are around fourteen different types noticed with variation being noticed in floral characters mainly in the number of whorls, the form of flower buds and even in vegetative characters such as leaf morphology and arrangement. The number of whorls is either single, double, three, five, seven, twelve or multiple. Of these only single whorled types are commercially cultivated. Even fascinating flowers were noticed in this species.”
GI registration to popular varieties: “Some of the cultivars in Karnataka are very specific to certain localities/regions which produce unique fragrances when grown only in that region. State Department of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, has obtained the Geographical Indication registration in order to protect these unique cultivars of jasmine, they are Udupi mallige (Jasminum sambac), Hadagali mallige (Jasminum auriculatum) and Mysore mallige (Jasminum azoricum synonym J. trifoliatum). Geographical Indication status has provided exclusive rights to the local community to cultivate these three species and continue to grow for many more years”, says Dr Nirmala K S.
Mysore mallige (Jasminum azoricum)
Hadagali Mallige is a variety of jasmine grown in Huvina Hadagali and surrounding areas. Hadagali is the taluk headquarters located 150 kilometres from Bellary District, Karnataka. These fragrant flowers are said to have been cultivated since the days of the Vijayanagar Empire in the 15th century and historically the flowers of Hadagali Mallige were being sent daily to Shree Veerupaksha temple at Hampi and used mainly for garland making. The flower fragrance is very strong and distinct. So it is used in the cosmetic industry also.
The ‘Udupi Mallige’ also known as ‘Shankarapura Mallige’ is grown in the Shankarapura and surrounding villages, of the Udupi district of coastal Karnataka. Historically Udupi Mallige flowers were offered to asta (8) Mutts, including the world-famous Lord Krishna Temple, since the 12th century. Udupi jasmine is well known for its exquisite fragrance. Buds are large, attractive white in colour with good keeping quality.
“Jasmines are more than just charming ornamental plants, they are a testament to nature’s ability to captivate the senses. Their mesmerizing fragrance and cultural significance make them a beloved presence in gardens, ceremonies, and everyday life around the world. Whether used for perfumes, teas, or as symbols of love, jasmine remains a timeless and cherished botanical treasure that continues to enchant generations with its timeless beauty and captivating scent”, signs off Dr. Nirmala. (By Manohar Yadavatti)
