‘Bharat Ek Gatha’ theme: International Flower Show in Ahmedabad from New Year’s Day

The “Shashvat Bharat” zone, depicting India’s mythological heritage, will be one of the major attractions of the flower show. “In this spiritually rich zone, mythological episodes such as Samudra Manthan, the essence of the Bhagavad Gita, Govardhan Leela, the descent of the Ganga, and Ram Setu will be artistically recreated through floral sculptures, reconnecting visitors with India’s ancient cultural narratives,” Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain said.

For the maintenance of seasonal plants installed for display at the event grounds on the Sabarmati Riverfront, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, as in previous years, has installed a sprinkler irrigation network system across an area of 10,524 square metres, replacing conventional watering methods such as tractors or pipes.

Another highlight of the flower show will be a symbolic zone representing national unity, featuring a grand 30-metre-diameter floral mandala and the world’s largest floral portrait of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This display, honouring the contribution of Sardar Patel — revered as the Iron Man of India — to national unity, has been prepared with the aim of establishing a Guinness World Record, the Mayor added.

Various zones of the exhibition will highlight different dimensions including ancient knowledge, festivals, artistic brilliance, and the story of modern development. As visitors move from one zone to another, they will experience India’s journey through time and closely feel the spirit of “unity in diversity.”

On this occasion, a sculpture prepared on the theme of ‘Women Empowerment’ will also be unveiled by the Honourable Chief Minister.

At the entrance two massive floral lions will welcome visitors symbolising the country’s courage, pride, and unwavering spirit. “At the entrance zone, national pride will be artistically expressed through floral lotus fountains, creating a dignified ambience aligned with the overall theme of the exhibition,” she added.

A special zone dedicated to India’s diverse festivals has also been created within the exhibition. Through floral artistry, the light and message of hope of Diwali, the colours and joy of Holi, the traditional elegance of Onam, and the rhythmic celebrations of Bihu will be brought to life. This zone will highlight cultural diversity and further strengthen the spirit of unity.

Alongside this, a zone dedicated to Indian classical and folk dance traditions will present the grace of dance forms such as Kuchipudi, Bhangra, Garba and Kathakali. At the centre of this zone will stand a representation of Lord Nataraja.

The “Achievements of India” zone, showcasing the progress of modern India, will present the nation’s excellence in high-speed rail, renewable energy, sports achievements, space technology, and the education sector through floral displays. This zone will present a narrative of balanced development between the country’s heritage and its future-oriented innovations.

For visitors, the entry fee will be Rs 80 from Monday to Friday and Rs 100 on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Free entry on all days will be available for all persons with disabilities, soldiers, children aged 12 years and below, and students of AMC-run schools. For students of non-AMC schools, the entry fee will be Rs 10 from Monday to Friday between 9 am and 1 pm. Additionally, a prime-time slot entry fee of Rs 500 will apply for visitors from 8 to 9 am and 10 pm to 11 pm.  The show will conclude on January 22.