Flak apart, Cherry Blossom fest ends on positive note

SHILLONG: The flak for the “splurge” and holding the event at a time when the flowers were yet to fully bloom notwithstanding, the 2nd India International Cherry Blossom Festival concluded on a positive note here on Saturday.
Thousands of people of all ages and sizes thronged Wards Lake on Saturday to witness the cherry blossoms while the numbers increased further in the evening. The crowd mostly comprised of youths and tourists.
Though the cherry blossoms have bloomed later than expected, the festival managed to attract decent crowds on all the four days.
Ranjit Gogoi who came from Assam said that though they cherry blossoms were yet to bloom in full he really enjoyed the festival.
He also felt that the government of Meghalaya should organise awareness campaigns about the festival aggressively so that the event attracts more crowds from outside the state and region.
On the other hand, M Chyne, a woman from the city who visited Wards Lake said that the festival was very nice.
“I had never thought that Wards Lake would be chock a block with visitors after sunset,” she said even as she added that the development was an indication that Wards Lake should be kept open even after dusk for people to come here for recreation.
She was quick to add that the authorities needed to install more lights at the site and provide security if the parks are to be kept open in the evening.
Wards Lake was also decorated and illuminated during the festival and a host of activities including rock shows, beauty pageant run, archery competitions were organised during the event. The state government is focusing on promoting tourism potential of the state by organising such festivals which not only boosts tourism but also projects the positive image of Meghalaya.
The multi-crore festival came in for much criticism earlier as the cherry blossoms were yet to flower.