From lakes to roses: Bhopal eyes floral makeover ahead of 2028 global summit

Bhopal: A large-scale rose cultivation drive has been launched in the city ahead of the World Rose Convention 2028, with thousands of varieties being planted and additional stocks sourced from across the country. Bhopal will host around 500 delegates from 35 countries at the convention in January 2028. The initiative seeks to transform Bhopal—long known as the "City of Lakes" for water bodies like Upper Lake and Bhojtal—into the "City of Roses." With preparations underway, the event is expected to showcase thousands of rose cultivars by 2028, attracting horticulturists, florists and tourists from across India, said World Rose Federation president Sushil Prakash."We want Bhopal to burst into color, rivaling global rose hubs like Bulgaria's Kazanlak," he added. Plantation work has begun at key locations such as BHEL premises, the state assembly and Minto Hall. Prakash said Bhopal has 72 gardens and over 100 nurseries, providing a strong base for the initiative. Local nurseries are cultivating hybrid teas, floribundas and grandifloras suited to the local climate, including varieties like ‘Iceberg' and ‘Queen Elizabeth'. More than 10,000 saplings have been planted so far, supported by workshops training farmers and students in grafting and pest management. "We're blending local pride with statewide collaboration. There will be special rose plantation at Bhopal airport and other such places," added Prakash. The convention, slated for January 2028 at the Minto Hall, will feature live displays, discussions, international rose auction and many more. City officials hail it as a green jobs generator, projecting hundreds of employments in cultivation and allied sectors.As petals unfurl, Bhopal's transformation from aquatic charm to rosy splendor inches closer, promising a fragrant future.