Kolkata has emerged as a national focal point for floriculture as the Bengal Rose Society is currently hosting the 42nd Indian Rose Convention and All India Rose Show from January 3 to 5 at Lions Safari Park. Organised under the aegis of the Indian Rose Federation, the prestigious convention is highlighting Bengal’s historic and contemporary leadership in rose cultivation, breeding, and exhibition standards in India.
The three-day national convention is witnessing participation from over 250 delegates, including eminent rosarians, breeders, horticulturists, researchers, and floriculture experts from across the country. The event has been graced by noted personalities such as Mr. Sanjoy Mukherjee, Mrs. Girija Viraraghavan, globally acclaimed rosarian, and Mr. Ashok Mehta, Chairman, Lions Safari Park, and is serving as a significant platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the promotion of best practices within India’s growing floriculture sector.
A key attraction of the ongoing Convention is the All India Rose Show, which is showcasing nearly 2,500 cut rose exhibits presented by leading growers from different regions of India. Bengal’s distinctive excellence in pot-grown roses continues to draw particular attention, with more than 700 potted rose exhibits on display. Several entries feature over 100 blooms per pot, reflecting advanced cultivation methods, specialised growing media, and refined horticultural techniques that have become hallmarks of the region. The exhibits are being evaluated by a panel of renowned rose experts from across the country.
Speaking at the Convention, Dr. Narendra Dadlani, President, Bengal Rose Society, said, “Hosting the 42nd Indian Rose Convention in Kolkata is a proud milestone for the Bengal Rose Society. This Convention represents decades of passion, discipline, and innovation by Bengal’s rosarians. Beyond the exhibition of roses, it is fostering scientific cultivation, encouraging sustainable practices, and enabling meaningful collaboration among growers, researchers, and institutions across India.”
Mr. Sushil Prakash, President, World Federation of Rose Societies, remarked, “The quality, scale, and diversity of roses being showcased here are truly world-class. Bengal’s leadership, particularly in pot-grown roses, reflects a depth of expertise that places India prominently on the global floriculture map.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Mrs. Sanyogita Dhanwatey, President, Indian Rose Federation, said, “The Indian Rose Convention in Kolkata demonstrates how regional excellence can drive national growth. Such platforms are vital for strengthening India’s floriculture ecosystem through shared learning and innovation.”
The Convention is also featuring technical sessions led by experts, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and future trends in floriculture. A dedicated presentation is outlining India’s roadmap for hosting the 21st World Rose Convention in Bhopal in 2028. The release of special publications, including the Bengal Rose Annual, is further underscoring the Convention’s role as a key knowledge and networking hub for India’s floriculture community.
