In a city that rarely slows down, Bonsai Blossoms 2026 offers a rare pause. The 25th annual Bonsai and Ikebana exhibition by the India Friendship Bonsai Society (IFBS) opened today at Jamnabai Narsee School, bringing with it living artworks shaped over decades — and a reminder of the quiet power of nature.
The exhibition was inaugurated by actress Tamannaah Bhatia, known for her advocacy of mindful living, in the presence of Harsha Hinduja, President of IFBS and Trustee of the Hinduja Foundation, and Urvashi Thakkar, Vice President of IFBS. Also in attendance were Rajashree Birla, philanthropist; Jayraj Thakkar, Managing Trustee of Narsee Munjee Educational Trust; and Ashok Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group of Companies (India).
Trees that tell stories of time This year’s showcase features over 200 Indian-grown bonsai, aged between 10 and 35 years, each bearing the marks of patience, care, and time. Among the most admired pieces are a 35-year-old Bougainvillea and a 30-year-old Ficus, both lovingly nurtured over decades by Harsha Hinduja.
The exhibition presents a diverse range of Indian species and long-practised bonsai techniques, offering visitors an intimate look at how years of quiet dedication shape each tree’s character.
‘A living dialogue with Mother Earth’ For Harsha Hinduja, bonsai is far more than an art form. “For me, bonsai is an amalgamation a panchamrit of the five elements: water, fire, earth, air and space. Bonsai is a living dialogue with Mother Earth, a celebration of patience, balance and harmony with nature. Each tree carries its own character and, in nurturing it, we also nurture introspection and inner growth within ourselves. Through Bonsai Blossoms, our endeavour is to bring together artists, enthusiasts and young learners from across the world not merely to admire this art, but to inspire a deeper connection with the environment. Our vision goes beyond the trees; it is about giving back and healing nature for all that Mother Nature so generously gives us, while ensuring this timeless art continues to connect people and cultures across generations.”
Over the years, the annual exhibition has grown into a beloved community gathering, inspiring many visitors to take up bonsai as a calming, reflective pursuit.
‘Living art that grounds the soul’ Chief guest Tamannaah Bhatia spoke about the emotional resonance of the exhibition. “There is something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by living art. Bonsai teaches us humility and reminds us to slow down, appreciate the natural world, and care for it with intention. Events like these helps reconnect us with the quiet strength that nature holds.”
A community nurtured with care Vice President of IFBS, Urvashi Thakkar, reflected on the Society’s journey and its enduring partnership with Jamnabai Narsee School. “Bonsai is a living art form that requires constant dedication and compassion. Over the years, IFBS has grown into a vibrant community that learns, creates and celebrates nature together. I am grateful to our members, our visiting artists, and especially to Harsha Hinduja, whose leadership continues to guide the Society with warmth and purpose.”
A meeting of cultures through bonsai The international spirit of the exhibition was underscored by H. E. Yagi Koji, Consul General of Japan. “It is encouraging to see the growing appreciation for bonsai and ikebana in India. These art forms embody the Japanese principles of harmony, simplicity and coexistence with nature. IFBS has played an important role in fostering this cultural exchange, and it is wonderful to see international artists contributing to this meaningful dialogue.”
Artists from India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines are participating this year, reinforcing bonsai’s role as a shared, cross-cultural language of nature and art.
Hands-on learning takes root Adding a fresh dimension to the silver jubilee edition, IFBS introduced a specialised bonsai workshop for the first time. The sessions were led by renowned global and Indian bonsai artists — Michael Morden (Philippines), Hayes Teo Siaw Hui (Malaysia), Veer Choudary (India), Gilang Muhammad (Indonesia), Manoj Kumar (India), and Ardiansyamei (Indonesia) — offering participants hands-on insights into styling, shaping, and long-term care.
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