Pankaj Jain
New Delhi, Feb 14 (.) Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Saturday inaugurated the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) ‘Palaash Mahotsav 2026’ at Baansera, bringing residents closer to nature through a vibrant showcase of flowers, culture and community activities.
For the first time, the annual flower festival is being held simultaneously at four locations Baansera, in Birsa Munda Chowk; Ashoka Garden in Ashoka Vihar; Lala Hardayal Park in Jasola; and Smriti Van in Narela, from February 14 to 16.
The festival features a wide range of activities, including thematic floral displays, curated gardens, landscape installations, competitions, cultural performances, artisan stalls and food courts. Each venue has been designed around a distinct theme reflecting nature, sustainability and community life.
At Ashoka Garden, the event was inaugurated in the presence of MLA Poonam Bhardwaj Sharma, who purchased the first ticket to encourage public participation. MP Parveen Khandelwal is expected to visit the venue on Sunday and dedicate the upgraded public facilities.
At Smriti Van in Narela, the festival was inaugurated by MP Yogender Chandoliya.
Tulips have been introduced as a key attraction of this year’s festival, expanding their presence beyond central Delhi and making them accessible to a wider audience. Visitors can also purchase tulips, adding a new dimension to the city’s floral culture.
Addressing the gathering, Saxena said the Palaash Mahotsav celebrates nature, community and environmental responsibility. He commended DDA for developing and maintaining green public spaces and urged citizens to participate in the festival and contribute to preserving and expanding Delhi’s green cover.
The three-day event also includes interactive workshops and hands-on activities focusing on biodiversity, water conservation and climate-sensitive urban practices, especially for children and youth. Activities such as planting drives and environmental pledges aim to promote collective responsibility towards sustainable urban living.
Organised annually by DDA since 2023, the Palaash Mahotsav is envisioned as more than a flower show, serving as a platform for community engagement in public spaces and promoting ecologically sensitive, people-centric urban development.
DDA officials said “With pleasant weather and seasonal blooms across the city, the festival offers residents an opportunity to celebrate spring in an open and engaging environment. The event is open to the public. Registration and programme details are available on the official website.”
. PKJ .