Pune: The ongoing flower show at Empress Botanical Garden, running from January 24 to 27, 2025, witnessed an overwhelming response from citizens on January 26 due to the Republic Day holiday and Sunday.

Visitors of all ages enjoyed activities such as purchasing plants, indulging in local snacks, exploring food stalls, and taking selfies amidst the colorful floral displays.

The event, which is open to the public until January 27, has drawn visitors not only from Pune but also from other cities, states, and even foreign countries. Many women attended the show wearing tricolor-themed outfits to celebrate Republic Day, adding a patriotic touch to the festive atmosphere.

One of the standout attractions of the show is the floral portraits of legendary artists late Bhimsen Joshi and late Lata Mangeshkar, crafted entirely from flower petals. These artistic tributes have become crowd favorites, with visitors taking photographs to capture their beauty.

The exhibition includes competitions showcasing flowers, vegetables, and bonsai plants. Numerous stalls at the venue offer gardening tools, fertilizers, pots, and ornamental plants, making it a paradise for gardening enthusiasts.

Visitors were also seen enjoying selfie points set up throughout the garden, which have become hotspots for photography lovers. Japanese-inspired floral arrangements, diverse bonsai trees, and creeper-adorned landscapes have been a major draw this year.

Nursery owners and flower enthusiasts from Kolhapur, Sangli, Nashik, and Andhra Pradesh are actively participating, adding to the grandeur of the event.

For children, the show offers attractions like buggy rides, horse rides, and swings, ensuring fun for the entire family. The closing ceremony on January 27 at 6:00 PM will feature prize distribution for competition winners, with Sunita Kalyani officiating the event.