Colourful Moghul gardens is now open for all

By Our Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI, FEB. 10.

Delhi's slice of paradise is open for a dekko! Moghul Gardens, the sprawling lawns attached to the official residence of the President, will be thrown open to the public tomorrow.

A profusion of colours, lush green turf, lovely flower beds laid out in intricate geometrical patterns, climbing vines over the bowers awaits the visitors this year. This time round, the Moghul Gardens will not just be a showcase of the best flora; the added attraction this year are the geese and ducks that have been introduced at the behest of First Lady, Ms. Usha Narayanan.

The First Lady, who takes keen interest in gardening, orchid cultivation and flower arrangement -- especially Ikebana -- has introduced several new varieties of flowers such as tulip, heliconia, birds of paradise, gladiolli, hyacinth and orchids.

Visitors can also view a gift from the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Wim Kok -- a large number of red, yellow and purple coloured tulips. Also, on display are various temperate flowers like daffodils, nargis, crocus, liatris and lilies.

Also in full bloom will be 250 varieties of roses, 20 kinds of bougainvillea, several annual and perennial flowers, hedges, climbers and creepers. Among these golden shower and jasmine are expected to be the major attractions on the wall of the Moghul Gardens.

The dahlia with its bloom of 6 inches to 12 inches in shades of mauve, golden rust, as well as red and white striped flowers are also expected to be a crowd puller. Also on display will be varied collection of Bonsai.

Spread over about six hectares, the garden was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens who drew inspiration from the Moghul Gardens of Kashmir, the Garden of Taj Mahal, and Persian and Indian miniature paintings. Its layout represents a synthesis of Moghul and British style gardens.

This year, the garden will be open on all Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturdays beginning tomorrow up to March 18. It will, however, remain closed on two Wednesdays -- February 21 and 28 -- owing to State visits. The garden will remain open between 9-30 a.m. to 4- 30 p.m. Entry here will be allowed only up to 4 p.m.

Access and exit into the Gardens will be from Gate No. 35 of the President's Estate, near North Avenue, at the Western end of Church Road. Visitors have been advised not to bring any handbags, lunch boxes and other eatables.

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