The vibrant city of Bengaluru is currently hosting a spectacular floral extravaganza at its iconic Cubbon Park. The ongoing flower show, which commenced recently, has successfully revived a beloved tradition, attracting tens of thousands of enthusiastic visitors every single day. This marks only the fourth edition of the event in Cubbon Park, setting it apart from the city's more historic Lalbagh botanical garden exhibitions.
A Historic Revival in the Garden City
While the bi-annual flower shows at Lalbagh boast a rich legacy spanning nearly a hundred years and are centered around its famous 19th-century Glass House, the Cubbon Park event represents a fresh comeback. This show had been held just three times before the global pandemic caused a prolonged interruption. Its successful return has been met with overwhelming public response, cementing its place on Bengaluru's cultural calendar.
The 11-day festival is scheduled to run until December 7, offering residents and tourists ample opportunity to experience its beauty. The event is meticulously organized along two primary pathways within the park. One stretch runs from the gate located near Bal Bhavan to the end of the road leading into Cubbon Park. This path interestingly intersects with another route that begins from the back of the Government Museum and leads towards the State Central Library and the historic Band Stand.
Floral Marvels and Cultural Beats
Visitors are treated to a visual feast comprising over 50 unique floral displays, each crafted from thousands of fresh flowers sourced from nurseries across Bengaluru. The creativity on display extends beyond blossoms to include various agricultural products. Among the standout attractions are a life-sized elephant sculpture fashioned from vegetables like gourds and capsicum, a detailed map of Karnataka created using millets and nuts, and a grand floral arrangement shaped like a traditional temple chariot.
The iconic Band Stand is not left out of the festivities; it serves as a vibrant venue for cultural events and live musical performances, adding an auditory delight to the visual spectacle. For those looking to take a piece of the experience home, dozens of stalls line both pathways. These feature vendors selling organic produce, horticultural plants, and related products.
More Than Just Flowers: Stalls and Souvenirs
The commercial aspect of the show is robust, with participation from public sector entities like the Karnataka State Agricultural Produce Processing and Export Corporation. Their stalls offer a range of goods from pickles to powdered juices. Additionally, attendees can browse and purchase snacks, souvenirs, and clothing. The event also showcases Bengaluru's artistic side, with prominent institutions like the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath displaying various artworks. Reproductions from the Rumale Art House, featuring works of artist Rumale Chennabasavaiah, are also part of the exhibition.
Practical information for visitors is straightforward. Admission is priced at Rs 30 for adults and Rs 10 for children. The show remains open from 6 am to 7 pm daily. For those using the Namma Metro, the advised route is to exit at the Cubbon Park station gate closest to the Tejas jet replica and then walk to the main entrance near the Bal Bhavan gate, purchasing a ticket along the way.
The resurgence of the Cubbon Park flower show demonstrates Bengaluru's enduring love for gardens and public celebrations. It provides a perfect weekend escape for families, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature's artistry right in the heart of the city.
