Aparajita flower is sacred to both Shiva and Vishnu in Hinduism. The flower is believed to have tantric powers. The blue color of Aparajita flower resembles the blue throat of Shiva – Neelkanth. The plant and flower is also offered to Goddess Durga.
Legend has it that the plant was first found only in the gardens of Devas or demigods in heaven. It was Guru Shukracharya who brought it down from heaven to earth.
In some regions, the plant is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
The Shankh or conch of Vishnu is referred to as Aparajita in the Mahabharata.
The flower is known as Shankupushpam in Tamil and Malayalam.
Another reason why the plant is associated with Shiva is because the root, stem and flowers are recommended for the treatment of snake bite and scorpion stings. Shiva is the great physician in Hindu religion.