Times News NetworkChandigarh: The Rose Festival, one of the signature events of the UT, started at the Sector 16 Rose Garden on Friday. The three-day event, which was inaugurated by Punjab governor and UT administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, includes multiple competitions and musical events. Addressing the gathering, Kataria lauded the efforts of officers and MC employees in organising the festival on such a grand scale. He remarked that while every flower has its own charm, the rose stands apart as the “Queen of flowers”, symbolising love, compassion, and beauty in literature and life. Describing Rose Garden as a place where a walk feels like a reading a beautiful story, he said the festival is a tribute to the magnificence of roses and nature. He fondly remembered M S Randhawa, who conceptualised the Rose Festival, and Zakir Husain, after whom the garden is named, noting that both were passionate horticulturists.Appreciating the enthusiasm of citizens and budding artists, he announced a special prize fund of Rs 10 lakh for winners of various competitions. He also noted that for the second consecutive time, the festival was based on the “zero budget” and “zero waste” model, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainability and public participation.Mayor Saurabh Joshi said that the festival has something for every age group, with popular competitions such as Rose Prince and Princess, Mr and Miss Rose, and Rose King and Queen for senior citizens. He appreciated the enthusiasm of citizens and the tireless efforts of MC officers in making the event a visual delight.The mayor also elaborated on new additions, including a dedicated food court for visitors, robust sanitation arrangements, display stalls showcasing the talent of beneficiaries under the DAY(S) component and various self-help groups. MC commissioner Amit Kumar said the Rose Garden is currently home to over 800 varieties of roses in diverse hues, complemented by breathtaking floral displays, innovative designs, and exotic exhibits.Box: Political rumblingsA rift was clearly witnessed in the ruling BJP, as none other than a few party councillors attended the inaugural event on Friday. A few elected municipal councillors of the Congress, along with the party president, attended the inaugural day of the Rose Festival. From the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), councillor/leader of opposition Hardeep Singh was the only one who attended the inaugural event.MSID:: 128610778 413 |
