In Hindi and Sanskrit, it is called Sathri, Satrisa, Amalak, Amalaki, and Anavala. In English, it is called Indian Gooseberry. It is associated with Shiva and Visnu. This plant is considered sacred because of Shiva's consort, Parvati, and Vishnu's consort, Laksami. According to the story, the two consorts of the gods went to the sacred land of Pyabatha and when they cried, Parvati wanted to offer Vishnu new clothes and ornaments, and Laksami wanted to offer Shiva new clothes and ornaments. This is why the Alangka tree, called Sathri, grew. Therefore, it is believed that both the festivals dedicated to Shiva and the festivals dedicated to Vishnu are incomplete without the leaves of this plant.
This plant is offered on the day of Shivaratri. The plant is tied with red and yellow threads and offered as if to a deity. This plant is also among the most sacred plants in Gujarat. On the 9th day of Kartik (October-November), women offer flowers and incense to this plant, praying for a male child. They walk around the plant five times (padakshina clockwise) and then tie the thread around it.
It is also said that the amalaki tree once transformed into a beautiful woman to distract Vishnu, who was obsessed with Varinda. It is medicinal and should be planted in the south of homes and schools.
