Nature lovers and horticulture experts gathered in large numbers at the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana this week. The occasion was the much-awaited annual Chrysanthemum Show, a vibrant celebration of the flower's fleeting yet magnificent beauty that graces the region for only a short season.
A Two-Day Spectacle of Floral Diversity
The two-day event was hosted at the Dr Manmohan Singh Auditorium on the PAU campus. It served as a tribute to the meticulous effort cultivators invest in nurturing these blooms. The show presented a stunning array of over 90 distinct varieties of chrysanthemums, competing across 12 different classes. One enthusiastic visitor captured the sentiment of many, stating, "While the flowers bloom for just about a month, the stunning beauty they offer makes the year-long wait completely worthwhile."
The Dedicated Art of Cultivation
The competitive displays featured categories like incurved, spider, pompom, Korean, and reflexed varieties. Charankamal Singh, a teacher from a local government school, exhibited a large pot of light green incurved chrysanthemums. He detailed the intensive care the species demands. "Growing chrysanthemums requires constant attention," Singh explained. "Protecting them from fungi and diseases, providing precise watering—it's a labor of love. But the moment the flower blooms and brings joy to people's faces, every bit of that effort feels rewarded."
The show, organized by PAU's Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, also paid homage to the celebrated Punjabi poet Bhai Vir Singh, whose literary works often drew inspiration from the chrysanthemum's elegance. Among the popular varieties that captivated attendees were 'Winter Queen,' 'Autumn Joy,' 'Punjab Shingar,' and the striking 'Royal Purple.'
Honoring Legacy with a New Bloom: 'Gul-E-Sahir'
During the inauguration ceremony, PAU Vice-Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal commended the hosting department for consistently organizing the annual spectacle and for pioneering new floral varieties. Dr. Gosal highlighted that PAU's floral research is broadening its scope, now including exotic species like tulips, Iris hollandica, and orchids alongside traditional flowers.
Parminder Singh, head of the floriculture department, described the show as a "rich legacy" that PAU has proudly upheld since its inception in 1996. He marked a significant highlight of this year's event: the official release of a new chrysanthemum cultivar named 'Gul-E-Sahir'. This variety honors the legendary Indian poet Sahir Ludhianvi, whose roots are deeply connected to Ludhiana, the host city of the show.
Setting High Standards in Floriculture
The event also facilitated valuable interactions between PAU scientists and visitors, who discussed advanced cultivation techniques. Distinguished guests, including former floriculture professor A P S Gill, praised the exhibition for establishing exemplary standards in floral diversification and presentation. The show stood as a testament to both botanical science and artistic expression, drawing appreciation from all quarters for its contribution to horticultural excellence in the region.
