KOCHI: The International Orchid fest organised by the Star Entertainment and The Metro Event Makers began here in the Marine drive Helipad ground here. Hibi Eden MLA inaugurated the fest.
A wide range of orchids, like Deldrobium, Vanda, Philanopsis, Sarcochilus, Mokaro, Oncidium, Cattila and lots more, from across the world are displayed as part of the fest. The orchids of myriad shapes and sizes are featured here.
Orchids that are displayed here come in different shapes - dancing girl, dove, flying duck, fly, bee, squid, donkey, lion to name a few - and the colours range from white to jet black. “When you look closer at an orchid, it looks back at you. It has a pair of eye and all the features a normal human being has,” said Priya, who is an orchid lover.
Another key attraction of the fest is the bonsai trees. There are more than 50 varieties of bonsai trees on display, owned by Lenus Panakkal. Every bonsai tree is shaped to a unique style and shape.
“It takes more effort than growing potted flowers and hence the sense of achievement is huge. Bonsai cultivation demands a much bigger commitment-physically and emotionally,” says Leon. Panakkal says that it is a work of lifetime to create a bonsai plant with all its beauty and perfection.
You have to pay attention to a lot of minute and delicate details; the thickness, length and even the size of each and every plant is calibrated to perfection. The Mame Bonsai collection, a miniature variant of bonsai trees, is the highlight of the fest. These are bonsais that easily fit in your palms.