Spring gala: Colour, fragrance and birds attract people

Annual spring show held at Rose and Jasmine Garden.

ISLAMABAD:

The colours and fragrances of spring were on full display in the Rose and Jasmine Garden here on Friday. The annual spring flower and bird show for this year attracted a large number of people.

The three-day show has been organised by the Islamabad Horticulture Society (IHS) in collaboration with Capital Development Authority (CDA). Leader of the House in Senate Senator Nayyar Hussain Bukhari who was the chief guest inaugurated the show.

A bird show titled “Beak and Wing” was also organised in which rare and exotic kinds of pigeons, hens, Australian Parrots, and eagles were exhibited.

The flower show showcased the colours of spring, with beautiful flower arrangements made by different organisations on display. The main objective of the show, according to the organisers, is to provide healthy entertainment to the residents of the twin cities.

Speaking on the occasion, Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari said that flowers add beauty and fragrance in our lives. He said that apart from beautification, flowers and roses are a great source of recreation and entertainment for the residents. “Such exhibitions encourage people to plant flowers in their homes,” he added.

More than a dozen types of spring flowers and plants like Panzi, Putina, Lesum, Para grass, Begonia, Carnation, Euphorbia, Flowering Kale, and Succulent Echevria were on display.

Muhamad Aslam, who was visiting with his family, termed the show as a healthy activity. “After visiting here, we feel relaxed because of the pollution-free environment and beautiful flowers. The pleasant weather really adds to the beauty of the whole event,” he added.

Sadia Khan another visitor, who had come with her friends, said, “I especially came from Rawalpindi to attend the flower show. [I wasn’t expecting much but] it was actually really nice.”

The organisations that are participating in the flower show include Capital Development Authority, Pakistan Horticulture Society, Pakistan Air Force Hospital, Serena Hotel, Khan Research Laboratories, Islamabad Club, National Highway Authority, Indonesian Embassy, Savour Foods, and Allama Iqbal Open University.

Anum Riaz, a visitor, had come to buy some exotic birds to keep as pets. But her hopes were quashed by the prices of the birds on display. “[Even] a pair of imported hens is for Rs8000,” she exclaimed.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 02^nd, 2011.