Lotus are several species in the family Nelumbonaceae.

Indian Lotus, Secrete Lotus, Bean of India, Egyptian Bean are the most known common names, but many more local names are recorded.
Lotus are so far included in the Water Lily group, although, the is a recent controversy of scientists about. Some believe that the lotus species are not sea lilies but their own isolated group due to their special survival features. Some species have the ability to regulate the temperature within a narrow ranch of 86-95 Fahrenheit [30-35 Celsius] even when the temperature drops to 50 Fahrenheit [10 Celsius]. They are long-living plants. An individual Lotus can live over 1000 years and can revert into activity after being long-time stasis.

The plants are native to tropical Asia and Queensland, Australia. Domesticated plants and hybrids are found around the world.
Lotus are grown as ornamental plants, but flowers seeds, young leaves and rhizomes are used in national foods and flavorful dishes served in restaurants around the world.

The dried seed heads are used for decorative purpose. At Inle Lake, Union of Myanmar, a fabric is made from lotus fibers for waving special robes for Buddha statues.
Lotus is a secrete plant to Hindus and Buddhists. Many deities of Asian religions are also connected with the plant.
Lotus is the National Flower of India and Vietnam.

The flower is synonym for the ideal feminine and presents elegance, perfection, purity and grace.
Buddhist and Hindu parents have given named their children after local names for Lotus, for hundreds of years.
In nova days, the several hundred years old custom of naming children after local names for the lotus flower, has reached many other parts around the world.