Capital Prepares for Vasanthotsavam and New Year Light Show

Thiruvananthapuram: The state capital is preparing for a vibrant festive season as the annual Vasanthotsavam flower show and New Year Light Festival return to Kanakakunnu Palace. The events, organised by the Tourism Department and the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), will run from December 23 to January 2.

This year’s Vasanthotsavam is being curated by the Palode Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden. The festival will feature competitions in about seventy categories, including flowering plants, ornamental plants, bonsai, orchids, anthuriums, adeniums and cacti. Individuals, nurseries, government departments and other institutions may participate. Applications must be submitted at the DTPC office in Vellayambalam before 5 pm on December 12. Winners will be chosen in each category, along with overall champions.

The flower show will showcase rare and unique varieties arranged in large thematic displays. More than 15,000 plants will take part in the competitive sections, while over 25,000 flowering plants are expected to add colour to the festival grounds. Stalls from nurseries will also operate for visitors wishing to purchase plants.

The New Year Light Festival will illuminate the Kanakakunnu Palace grounds with diverse lighting designs and art installations. A special light show costing 1.18 crore has been arranged as part of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Tourism Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas, who chaired the organising committee meeting, said the festival aims to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere in the capital. He added that enhanced lighting themes and promotional activities will help attract more visitors. “The flower show and illumination will be a true people’s festival,” he said.

This year’s celebrations will be coordinated by a strengthened organising committee. Ministers V. Sivankutty and G. R. Anil will serve as chief patrons, along with local MPs, MLAs, the Mayor and the District Panchayat President. Minister Riyas will chair the committee, with Minister Sivankutty as working chairman. The Tourism Secretary will act as general convener, while the District Collector and Tourism Director will serve as conveners. The Additional Director (General) of Tourism will be the joint convener, and the DTPC Secretary will oversee overall coordination with support from several subcommittees.

The combined festival is expected to draw large crowds as the city ushers in the holiday season with flowers, lights and cultural events.