Do You Know About The Strange Legend Of Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day, a.k.a. Lovers’ Day, is finally here after a rather eventful week of hugs, teddies, chocolates, instantaneous promises (which will soon be long forgotten post midnight) and what not. Needless to say, the week saw red roses and hearts back in action. Roses are synonymous with Valentine’s Day. But have you ever wondered how this association came to be?

According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite-the Greek goddess of love, named the flower after her son ‘Eros’ by rearranging the letters of his name to ‘Rose’.

But, Why Red Roses For Valentine’s?

According to floriography-the language of flowers, red roses translate to love and passion, while the ones in yellow stand for friendship. White roses represent purity and innocence, whereas pink roses signify admiration, joy and sweetness.

Roses henceforth became a fitting choice of gift for Lovers’ Day because of its affiliation with the Goddess of Love!

History suggests that the fad of sending flowers for Valentine’s day dates back to the Victorian Era, when flowers were used to send secret messages. Gradually, this practice became increasingly common for lovers to secretly express their feelings - something which the Victorian culture then deemed unfit.

Other stories suggest that the practice of sending flowers began in the 17th century, during the reign of King Charles II of Sweden, when he was introduced to floriography on his trip to Persia. This infatuation then spread across Europe, with people becoming aware of flowers and their significance.

Read: This is Where You Can Celebrate Valentine's Day!

A Roman Myth Or Reality?

For those unaware, Valentine’s Day is named after Saint Valentine, who was a Roman priest around the 3rd century, during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. When the Emperor found that men were unwilling to join his army, he assumed that it was because of their immense love towards their wives and families and decided to outlaw marriages and engagements in Rome. However, it is said that Valentine continued to conduct marriages discreetly, and was imprisoned when this was discovered by Claudius II.

A casket containing St. Valentine’s remains and blood are preserved in the Whitefriar street church in Dublin, and is frequented by couples who pray to ask him to watch over them.

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So let loose, and fall in love! As Joan Crawford rightly said, “Love is a fire. But whether it is going to warm your heart or burn down your house, you can never tell!” On that note, team HerZindagi wishes all the couples out there (and the ones flying solo) a happy Valentine’s Day!