Sugarcane has been mentioned in several Hindu scriptures, including the Vedas, the Puranas, and the Bhagavad Gita. In Hinduism, sugarcane is considered a sacred plant, and is associated with various deities and religious rituals.
In the Vedas, sugarcane is mentioned as one of the five sacred plants, along with the tulsi (holy basil), darbha (kusha grass), banyan, and peepal trees. Sugarcane is also mentioned in the Rigveda as a symbol of prosperity and fertility.
In the Puranas, sugarcane is associated with the deity Ganesha, who is often depicted holding sugarcane in his hand.
In the Bhagavad Gita, sugarcane is used as a metaphor for the soul, which is said to be as sweet and pure as the juice of sugarcane. The Gita also speaks of the importance of self-control, comparing the senses to the strong and uncontrollable roots of the sugarcane plant.
Overall, sugarcane holds a special place in Hindu culture and religion, and is revered for its sweetness, fertility, and spiritual symbolism.
During Makar Sankranti, which embarks the transition of the sun into Capricorn, sugarcane is used significantly. During Pongal which is celebrated in South India and during Makar Sankranti, people gift sugarcane as a symbol of good wishes and sweetness.
In Ayurveda as well, sugarcane has many usages and the sugarcane is considered to have a cooling effect and be refreshing for the body.
Sugarcane is also considered pious and devotees offer it to shiva linga in some temples. It is also common to offer Sugarcane to God in various temples as a symbol of prosperity and abundance.
In some Islamic cultures as well, sugarcane is very important during the holy month of Ramadan. Sugarcane is also traditionally used to sweeten the iftar(breaking the fast) dishes and desserts. It is also popular in the fasting month of Ramadan, due to it’s hydrating properties.
Sugarcane also plays a significant part in some African cultures. In those cultures, it is used for traditional healing practices and in ritual offerings.
Sugarcane is a widely cultivated croup in Asia and has significance importance in many Asian as well as African cultures.