SHILLONG, Jan 25: Flower enthusiasts in Shillong experienced a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle as the city hosted its first-ever flower show at the iconic Raj Bhavan.
The event, featuring an exquisite array of exotic blooms and meticulously curated bonsai trees, captivated visitors, including Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar, who inaugurated the show.
The event was a joint initiative by Raj Bhavan Shillong, the Shillong Agri-Horticulture Society, and the Directorate of Horticulture. More than 300 exhibits, contributed by 30 dedicated members of the Shillong Agri-Horticulture Society, were on display, leaving attendees in awe.
Governor Vijayashankar commended the participants for their passion and years of dedication to cultivating and preserving plants. He also took the time to interact with society members, including a remarkable woman who has nurtured a bonsai tree for over 32 years. Deeply moved by her commitment, the Governor suggested documenting her inspiring journey.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Vijayashankar emphasized that Raj Bhavan belongs to the people of Meghalaya. He announced that its premises, previously open to the public only on Republic Day (January 26) and Independence Day (August 15), will now be accessible more frequently. Additionally, he declared that the flower show would become an annual event, celebrating Shillong’s rich horticultural heritage.
BDR Tiwari, Secretary to the Governor, applauded the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders for organizing the event within a remarkably short timeframe. Maqbool Lyngdoh Suiam, President of the Shillong Agri-Horticulture Society, highlighted Shillong’s immense potential in floriculture and advocated for improved marketing platforms to bolster the sector.
