Bengaluru’s iconic Lalbagh Botanical Garden is once again buzzing with color, culture, and celebration as it hosts its annual flower show. Inaugurated on Thursday by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, this year’s event is themed around Adikavi Maharshi Valmiki. The flower show offers an enchanting floral tribute to the legendary poet and author of the Indian epic, the Ramayana. The 11-day spectacle, which runs until January 26, is expected to attract around 10 lakh visitors.

A Visual Ode to Valmiki

The show’s centerpiece is a breathtaking 15-foot anthill model symbolizing Maharshi Valmiki’s penance, accompanied by a 10-foot statue of the sage in a meditative pose as he composed the Ramayana. Surrounding this masterpiece are vibrant floral depictions of prominent poets like Kuvempu, Nagachandra Abhinava Pampa, Kamban, and Tulsidas, who adapted the Ramayana into various Indian languages. Adding to the grandeur are scenes from Sita and Rama’s forest exile, complete with realistic natural sound effects of chirping birds, which captivated visitors.

Other highlights include a floral rendition of Valmiki’s house and artistic representations of beloved Ramayana characters like Hanuman, Jambavan, the squirrel, and Jatayu. The iconic Glass House serves as the canvas for these artistic masterpieces.

For many visitors, the flower show is more than just an exhibition; it’s a cherished tradition. Karthik Babu, a 32-year-old from Rajarajeshwari Nagar, shared that visiting the flower show brought back cherished memories of attending the event as a child with his mother. He expressed his joy at revisiting the show once again, this time with his wife.

Blooming Beauties on Display

Nature enthusiasts are in for a treat with an array of exotic flowers showcased at the event. Highlights include orchids such as Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Vanda, Mokara, Cattleya, and Oncidium, along with Calla lilies, bromeliads, and geraniums. To maintain freshness, over 10 lakh cut flowers, including Dutch roses and chrysanthemums, will be used. Remarkably, after six days, 5 lakh flowers will be replaced to ensure the displays remain vibrant.

Eco-Friendly Initiatives

This year’s show also emphasizes sustainability. Single-use plastic bottles and carry bags are strictly prohibited to maintain a litter-free environment. Visitors have access to ten drinking water units, with eight additional units installed specifically for the event.

The event isn’t just about visual appeal; it’s also an educational experience. On January 20, high school students from Bengaluru South will participate in an essay competition on the theme “Adikavi Maharshi Valmiki – Biography and Message,” to be held at the Horticulture Training Centre. This initiative aims to instill cultural pride and literary appreciation in young minds.

Beyond the flowers, the theme reflects a broader social context. Following a controversy involving the Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation, the state government sees this event as an opportunity to honor the Valmiki community. The intricate floral arrangements, created with inputs from literary experts and references to over 40 works on the Ramayana, underline the government’s dedication to celebrating the sage’s legacy.

Whether you’re a lover of flowers, a history buff, or simply looking for a colorful retreat, the Lalbagh Flower Show is a must-visit. It’s a celebration of art, nature, and heritage that promises to leave you inspired. So, make your way to this annual extravaganza and immerse yourself in the captivating story of Valmiki, brought to life through the magic of flowers.