Visitors at the flower show. Picture by Hardeep Singh

Ranchi, Dec. 28: The Mahatma Gandhi Town Hall in the heart of the capital was a riot of colours during the annual chrysanthemum show organised by the Ranchi chapter of the Horticulture Society of Chhotanagpur here today.

The hall was full with different varieties of the flower arranged in neat rows. The organisers had received 250 entries to the competition. About 2,500 pots have been put up on display.

The programme was inaugurated by agriculture secretary M.K. Mandal. “People still do not know about the exhibition and will come as soon as the word spreads in town. The show is a treat for the eyes and anybody who loves flowers will definitely be here. The best in the city have been put up on display,” said Palandu-based horticulture scientist V.K. Gupta.

Chrysanthemums are originally from Japan and were imported to India in the 19th century. The flower is susceptible to climatic fluctuations and need a lot of care. “There are many varieties of the flower. These are not available at one place. The organisers should track down the participants and the best of each variety should be kept to produce that particular variety so that all types are available at one place,” said Mandal. Chrysanthemums bloom when kept in dark for about 16 hours a day.