Lucknow: A riot of colours, fragrances, and festive cheer marked the grand conclusion of the two-day Annual Chrysanthemum and Coleus Show–2025 at CSIR–National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow. Drawing an overwhelming response from the general public, students, women, plant lovers, and gardening enthusiasts, the show once again reaffirmed its place as one of the city’s most eagerly awaited floral celebrations.
From exquisitely curated chrysanthemum blooms to strikingly patterned coleus varieties, the institute campus turned into a living canvas of nature’s artistry. Visitors across age groups were seen strolling through the displays, clicking photographs, exchanging gardening tips, and soaking in the joy that only flowers can bring.
The closing ceremony, held at the open-air theatre amidst swaying blooms and vibrant floral beds, was a fitting finale to the spectacle. Dinesh Pratap Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Horticulture, Marketing, Foreign Trade and Agri-Exports, Government of Uttar Pradesh, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dr. P. K. Trivedi, Director, CSIR–CIMAP, and Mahendra Kumar Gupta, Joint Secretary (Administration), CSIR, New Delhi, attended as Guests of Honour. The dignitaries distributed prizes to winners, applauding the dedication and creativity of participants.
This year’s competition witnessed enthusiastic participation, with 157 general prizes awarded across categories—50 First Prizes, 55 Second Prizes, and 52 Third Prizes. Based on cumulative performance, Director, CSIR–CIMAP, Lucknow emerged as the top prize winner, followed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Lucknow, and Headquarters, Central Command (Cantonment), Lucknow. Other notable winners included Manju Nursery, Tata Motors, Lucknow, La Martiniere College, and individual flower enthusiasts, reflecting the show’s wide institutional and public reach.
Several prestigious trophies added further prestige to the event. The Small-Flowered Chrysanthemum Group Trophy and Coleus Group Trophy were bagged by Director, CSIR–CIMAP, Lucknow, while Tata Motors, Lucknow won the Large-Flowered Chrysanthemum Group Trophy. The coveted titles of ‘King’, ‘Queen’, and ‘Prince of the Exhibition’ went to Saubhagya Srivastava, Alfred Gomes, and Mishika respectively. The Flower of the Year ‘Gypsy Queen’ Trophy was awarded to Mehak, while the prestigious Director General’s Trophy for highest overall score was clinched by Director, CSIR–CIMAP, Lucknow.
In his address, Shri Dinesh Pratap Singh lauded CSIR–NBRI for preserving and promoting India’s floricultural heritage through scientific innovation. He emphasized that floriculture holds immense potential to enhance farmers’ income and encouraged rooftop gardening as a means of promoting positive energy and self-sufficiency. He reaffirmed the Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to horticulture-led growth and agri-exports.
Mahendra Kumar Gupta praised the collective efforts of scientists, staff, and participants, stating that such outreach initiatives reflect how scientific institutions can meaningfully engage with society. Dr. P. K. Trivedi highlighted the role of ornamental plants in value addition, entrepreneurship, and rural development, stressing the importance of collaboration between research institutions and industry.
Earlier, welcoming the guests, Dr. A. K. Shasany, Director, CSIR–NBRI, underlined the institute’s six-decade legacy of flower shows and their role in bridging science and society. Dr. K. J. Singh, Convener of the Show, proposed the vote of thanks.
A major highlight of the valedictory day was the launch of two new indigenous chrysanthemum varieties—‘NBRI-Madhukram’ and ‘NBRI-Shukra’. Unveiled by the dignitaries, the new varieties showcase CSIR–NBRI’s leadership in ornamental plant breeding. With their distinctive anemone-type blooms, attractive pinkish-purple hues, and grower-friendly traits, the varieties promise fresh opportunities for floriculturists, nurseries, and hobby gardeners alike.
As the curtains came down, the Chrysanthemum & Coleus Show–2025 left behind not just colourful memories, but also a renewed appreciation for floriculture as a blend of science, art, livelihood, and joy.
