Bangalore, Aug 8 (IANS) All roads in Bangalore seem to be leading to the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, where a colourful flower show, complemented by pleasant weather, is attracting people in hordes.
The show has been organised by the Karnataka State Horticulture Department as a part of Independence Day celebrations. The flower fiesta was inaugurated by Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa Friday.

Lalbagh witnessed more than 6,000 footfalls on the inaugural day.

“On Saturday, around 3,000 visitors enjoyed the flower show till afternoon. There is a huge rush,” Deputy Director of Horticulture M. Jagadeesh told IANS.

“Visitors are eager to know about the unique floral arrangements and the rare medicinal plants on display at the show,” he added.

Looking at the rush on the first two days of the show, the organisers are expecting around 600,000 visitors throughout the flower carnival.

A huge rush of children accompanied by their elders was witnessed at the botanical garden, spread over 240 acres. They enjoyed beautiful flower formations of teddy bears created out of red and pink flowers, a dinosaur created out of 50,000 flowers as well as flowery mermaids and fish.

Nearly 800 florists are taking part in the festival. Several floral designers too have participated in the show.

Another speciality at the show this year is a series of floral designs based on Thai style by Jayanthi, a Bangalore-based expert.

“I have used banana leaves and Janur fruit to showcase Thai art,” said Jayanthi.

Fifty exotic flower species are on display. The famous glass house at Lalbagh showcased around 300 varieties of potted flowers.

Along with common varieties like roses, marigolds, cockscomb and geranium, a number of exotic flowers, including brachycome and colosia, are on display.

“This is something amazing. All the colourful flowers not only soothe the eyes, but also helps us learn about different varieties of exotic flowers,” said Smita Paul, a BPO executive who visited Lalbagh with her two daughters Saturday morning.

The show will be open between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. till Aug 16.

The entry fee for the show is Rs.30 for an adult and Rs.10 for children below 12 years on weekdays. However, on weekends, the tickets for adults are priced at Rs.40 per person.