Ashlesha Nakshatra
Nakshatra Details
The word Ashlesha or Ashresha means embracing. When the Sun reaches this nakshatra, the Kharif crop grows and starts embracing each other. This nakshatra of five-six stars is the mouth of the great serpent (Hydra) situated in the sky. There is a Greek legend that this aquatic serpent had nine mouths, which when cut would give rise to new heads. These five stars situated on the mouth of the serpent form a circle, in which it seems that the stars are embracing each other (Ashlesha).
Calculation
Number of stars: 5 or 6 Scientific name of the star: Delta, Epsilon, Eta Rho, Sigma and possibly Xei stars of the Great Serpent constellation. Ayanamsha: 106°40' to 120°00' Zodiac sign: Cancer Sun's residence: 3 August to 17 August (approximately)
Nagkesar
It is a medium to large height, beautiful, evergreen tree which is mainly found in the moist forests of Assam region. Naturally, it is also found in the Western Ghats of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and Andaman Nicobar. In scientific language, it is called Mesua ferrea or Mesua nagassarium. In English, it is called 'Iron Wood Tree' (due to very hard wood). The trade name of its wood is Nahor.
Mythological Significance
It is often seen in Assam near old Buddhist monasteries. Its flowers are offered to Lord Vishnu.