Chandigarh, February 20:- The much-awaited 54th edition of the Rose Festival-2026 commenced today with great pomp and show at the iconic Zakir Hussain Rose Garden. The three-day mega celebration of nature was formally inaugurated by Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, accompanied by his wife Smt. Anita Kataria.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Sh. Saurabh Joshi, City Mayor; Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh; Sh. Mandip Singh Brar, IAS, Home Secretary-cum-Secretary, Local Government; Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, Commissioner, MC Chandigarh; Sh. Saurabh Kumar, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forest; Sh. Pardeep Kumar, IAS, Special Commissioner, MC; along with councillors, senior officers of Chandigarh Administration and Municipal Corporation, and prominent citizens.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor lauded the dedicated efforts of officers and employees of the Municipal Corporation in organizing the festival on such a grand scale. He remarked that while every flower has its own charm, the rose stands apart as the “Queen of Flowers,” symbolizing love, compassion, and eternal beauty in literature and life.

He highlighted that the Rose Garden has been thoughtfully designed so that a walk through it feels like reading a beautiful story. The festival, he said, is a tribute to the magnificence of roses and a vibrant celebration of nature.

The Governor also fondly remembered M. S. Randhawa, who conceptualized the Rose Festival, and Zakir Husain, after whom the garden is named, noting that both were passionate horticulturists.

Appreciating the enthusiastic participation of citizens and budding artists, he announced a special prize fund of ₹10 lakh for participants of various competitions.

The Governor expressed happiness that this year’s festival continues its unique ‘Zero Budget’ and ‘Zero Waste’ model for the second consecutive time, reflecting the city’s growing commitment to sustainability and public participation.

City Mayor Sh. Saurabh Joshi emphasized that the festival has something for every age group, with popular competitions such as Rose Prince & Princess, Mr. & Miss Rose, and Rose King & Queen for senior citizens. He appreciated the overwhelming enthusiasm of citizens and the tireless efforts of MCC officers in making the event a visual delight.

The Mayor also highlighted new additions, including a dedicated food court to cater to visitors, robust sanitation arrangements, and display stalls showcasing the talent of beneficiaries under the DAY(S) component and various Self-Help Groups.

MC Commissioner Sh. Amit Kumar stated that the Rose Garden is currently home to over 800 varieties of roses in diverse hues, complemented by breathtaking floral displays, innovative designs, and exotic exhibits.

The three-day festival features a rich lineup of events, including Brass and Pipe Band competitions, photography exhibitions, Mushaira, cultural evenings, and a dedicated Game Zone for children.
Reinforcing the ‘Zero Waste’ theme, the Municipal Corporation has set up awareness displays under the Swachh Bharat Mission and launched “Swachhata Ke Puzzles” — interactive jigsaw puzzles promoting waste segregation, four categories of waste, anti-littering messages, and plastic-free living.

Stalls promoting the MC One Pass initiative have also been installed at key entry gates to create mass awareness among visitors.