In a unique fusion of horticulture and art, the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has paid a lasting tribute to one of India's most celebrated poets. The university has named a newly developed chrysanthemum flower variety after the legendary lyricist Sahir Ludhianvi.
A Blossoming Tribute at the Annual Show
The vibrant, yellow-coloured blooms of the new variety, named 'Punjab Gul-e-Sahir', were unveiled to the public for the first time. Their debut took place at the two-day annual Chrysanthemum Show held at PAU, which concluded on a Wednesday in early December 2025. This event marked a poetic moment where agriculture met immortal artistry.
The Lyrical Inspiration Behind the Name
While science and creativity are often seen as separate realms, PAU scientists found a beautiful connection. According to Dr. Parminder Singh, Professor and Head of the Department of Floriculture at PAU, the variety was named after Sahir Ludhianvi because its "buds bloom in a lyrical way". This rhythmic unfurling reminded them of the timeless flow of Sahir's classic songs and poems, such as 'Main Zindagi ka saath nibhaata chala gaya' and 'Kabhi kabhi mere dil mein khyaal aata hai'.
Dr. Singh explained that the idea originated with Dr. APS Gill, a former senior scientist who began working on this variety decades ago. Although Dr. Gill retired in 1995, the project was later completed by Dr. Madhu Bala. The dedication was a fitting homage to Sahir, a native of Ludhiana whose work continues to resonate across the nation.
Scientific Profile and Availability
The 'Punjab Gul-e-Sahir' is not just poetically named but also boasts distinct botanical characteristics. It is an early flowering variety that takes approximately 102 days to bloom. The plants grow to about 38 cm in height with a compact habit. The flowers are of the "Korean type", meaning they are small with visible disc florets.
Each plant can produce around 88 flowers, with a flowering duration of 28 days, making it particularly suitable for pot culture. For gardening enthusiasts wishing to cultivate this tribute, PAU is actively propagating the variety. Cuttings are being supplied to agricultural centers nationwide, and plants are available for purchase directly from the PAU Ludhiana campus at gate number 2.
This floral dedication adds to the existing memorials for Sahir Ludhianvi in his hometown. His alma mater, SCD Government College in Ludhiana, already houses a botanical garden named "Gulistan-e-Sahir" in honor of its illustrious, albeit once controversial, alumnus. Over four decades after his passing, Sahir's legacy continues to find new forms of expression, from gardens to now, a flower that blooms with the rhythm of his verses.
