Abdul Kalam to leave a ‘fragrance’ in Rashtrapati Bhavan

From writing poetry to creating a kitchen museum at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, President APJ Abdul Kalam has done it all.

And before he finally bids adieu to the President’s House in the next few months, the President is upbeat on creating a ‘Fragrant Rosary’ on the Rashtrapati Bhavan premises.

At the behest of the President, Rashtrapati Bhavan staff have been working towards creating a special section in the Mughal Garden, which has been dedicated to scented roses. The first time since some of the roses were planted, visitors to the Mughal Gardens can now see the flowers in full bloom.

 “Roses are known for their fragrance. But nowadays, there are a lot of varieties available without fragrance. And the President insisted that the beauty of the Mughal Gardens could not be enjoyed completely without the visual appeal and the fragrance of roses,” a Rashtrapati Bhavan said.

Half an acre of plot has been selected for the ‘Fragrant rosary,’ which at present has more than 30 varieties of fragrant roses.

“We’re in the process of collecting varieties from across country. We’ve got samples from Delhi, Pune, Bangalore and Kolkata,” said Brahma Singh, officer on special duty, Horticulture, Rashtrapati Bhavan, incharge of the Mughal Gardens. From Hybrid tea to floribundas and vine climbers, roses in every hue are going to be a part of this section.

“We’re looking at adding new varieties and are happy that some of them have blossomed this season. It’s a real visual treat for visitors,” Singh added.