A Lotus in Bali - In Hinduism the lotus is a symbol of the sun and of creation

 Its origin is generally assigned to the primeval waters (Taittiriya Brahmana, 1.1.3,5), from which it emerged on the eve of creation or cosmic renewal as a thousand leafed plant from Visnu's navel (representing the center of the energy of the universe). Seated on the opened flower was the Lord Brahma. Thus in Hinduism the lotus became the "visible representation of the womb of creation.