Vasantholsavam, light show open in Thiruvananthapuram city

As the festive season approaches, many seek vibrant celebrations that blend cultural richness with visual splendor. The city’s latest event offers just that-a spectacular floral and illumination festival designed to captivate both locals and visitors. This twelve-day extravaganza not only enhances the holiday spirit around Christmas and New Year but also showcases the region’s commitment to promoting tourism through innovative experiences. For those interested in exploring Kerala’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, this festival provides an immersive glimpse into the state’s diverse attractions.

Celebrating Unity Through Light and Nature

The recently launched Vasantholsavam festival, organized by the Department of Tourism, is more than just a visual spectacle. Inaugurated by Minister for tourism and Public Works P.A.Mohamed Riyas, the event embraces the theme “Illuminating joy, Spreading Harmony”, emphasizing Kerala’s longstanding tradition of communal harmony and social cohesion. This thematic focus is reflected in the festival’s design,which combines dazzling light displays with natural beauty to foster a sense of unity among attendees.

Innovative Attractions Enhancing the Festive Atmosphere

One of the festival’s highlights is the installation of a colossal illuminated sleigh, complete with reindeer, positioned at the iconic entrance of the Kanakakkunnu Palace grounds. This centerpiece welcomes visitors with a festive spirit,setting the tone for the celebrations. Additionally, the event features immersive walkways adorned with oversized, glowing floral and leaf motifs in calming shades of purple and white, creating an enchanting garden-like environment.A standout attraction is the intricately crafted giant dragon, rendered in vibrant red and gold, which serves as a captivating focal point for the light show.

Floral Exhibits and Botanical Excellence

The festival proudly displays an extensive collection of over 35,000 flowering plants, meticulously curated by the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanical Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI), Palode. Among the floral highlights is the dedicated Chrysanthemum Festival, showcasing more than 8,000 chrysanthemum blooms in a variety of colors and forms. Visitors can also admire a diverse array of dahlias, marigolds, petunias, zinnias, daisies, anthuriums, lilies, and tulips, alongside numerous indigenous flowers. This botanical diversity not only enriches the visual experience but also educates attendees about the region’s horticultural wealth.

Engaging Activities and Visitor Participation

Beyond passive viewing, the festival encourages active involvement through a flower decoration expo and competitions open to both adults and students. These events foster creativity and community engagement, allowing participants to showcase their floral artistry. for those interested in taking a piece of the festival home, various nurseries have set up stalls offering flowers and plants for sale.The entry fee is modest, priced at ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for children, making the event accessible to a wide audience.

Vital Facts: Key Points to Remember

• The Vasantholsavam festival runs for twelve days, coinciding with the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
• Organized by the Department of Tourism, Kerala, the event promotes communal harmony under the theme “Illuminating Joy, Spreading Harmony”.
• P.A. Mohamed Riyas, the Minister for Tourism and Public Works, officially inaugurated the festival.
• The festival features over 35,000 flowering plants,curated by the JNTBGRI,Palode.
• The Chrysanthemum Festival is a key attraction, displaying more than 8,000 chrysanthemum flowers.
• other flowers on display include dahlias, marigolds, petunias, zinnias, daisies, anthuriums, lilies, and tulips.
• A giant illuminated sleigh with reindeer is installed at the Kanakakkunnu Palace entrance.
• The festival includes a flower decoration expo and competitions for adults and students.
• Entry fees are ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for children.
• The event aims to boost various tourism sectors in Kerala, including beach, high range, cinema, and wellness tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main theme of the Vasantholsavam festival? The festival’s theme is “Illuminating Joy, Spreading Harmony”, highlighting Kerala’s communal unity and festive spirit.

Q: where is the giant illuminated sleigh located? It is installed at the entrance of the Kanakakkunnu Palace grounds, serving as a festive landmark.

Q: Who curates the floral displays at the festival? The extensive flower collection is curated by the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanical Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI), Palode.

Q: Are there any interactive events during the festival? Yes, the festival hosts a flower decoration expo and competitions for both adults and students to encourage participation.

Q: What are the entry fees for attending the festival? The ticket price is ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for children, making it affordable for families and tourists alike.