Pilgrims flock NY home to pay obeisance to elephant-shaped Ganesha plant

New York, Oct 23 : Sam Lal's home has turned into a pilgrimage of sorts, as neighbours and friends are flocking his Queen's home to catch a glimpse of the strange plant that resembles Hindu Lord Ganesha.

Lal, who first noticed the purple plant, from the amaranth family, claimed that the plant relieved him of his chronic back pain.

And now, everyone on Lal's block in Jamaica wants to get a peek at the incredible flower.

"I'm amazed - I actually got goosebumps when I saw it. I feel the presence of God," The New York Daily News quoted Hansannie Singh, 41, of Bellerose, Queens, as saying.

Others like Kris Ram snapped cell phone photos of the 4-foot-tall plant that is believed to resemble the elephant-headed god revered by billions of believers.

"Miracles do happen. It just goes to show that God is everywhere," said Ram.

Lal, 60, said his chronic back pain has all but disappeared since the plant, which started growing early in the summer, took on the deity's likeness.

"God is alive in everything. It's a powerful inspiration," he said.

ANI