The allure of small beauties captivated older generations, leading them to pause and contemplate the profound beauty and essence that flowers embody.
It is often said that where flowers blossom, hope flourishes.
Older generations had more charm for these little things of beauty. They would pause and reflect, appreciating the beauty and soulfulness that flowers had to offer. (Representational image/HT)
The resonance of this statement lingered with me ever since I delved into the art of cultivating daffodils a few months back. Recently, witnessing Miley Cyrus clinch her inaugural Grammy for her groundbreaking song filled me with joy and satisfaction. The recognition was truly well-deserved, as her song encapsulated themes of hope, determination, resilience, and self-love. It comes as no surprise that the song was aptly titled “Flowers.”
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There is an enchanting quality about flowers that captivates me, a sentiment I believe resonates with many. Older generations possessed a deeper appreciation for these small wonders of beauty. They would pause, savoring the aesthetic and soulful essence that flowers exude. In contrast, the younger generation seems to lack the time for such reflections, valuing flowers primarily on special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, and, naturally, Valentine’s Day. Perhaps the allure of flowers transcends age or time availability, instead reflecting one’s inclination towards them.
My fondness for flowers undoubtedly stems from my paternal grandmother, who cultivated extraordinary gardens. One particular garden was adorned with exquisitely fragrant pink roses, overlooking a picturesque snow-capped mountain range—one of the most breathtaking sights I have encountered in India. Her other gardens bloomed with a vibrant array of colors—orange marigolds, purple pansies, red velvets, assorted daisies, roses, dahlias, and chrysanthemums—all meticulously tended to. In contrast, my mother opted for low-maintenance perennial plants, reserving flowers solely for potted displays, highlighting the inclination factor I previously mentioned.
However, the significance of flowers transcends mere aesthetics. I vividly recall an encounter with a young man at a bazaar in Patiala, seated amidst grazing sheep and goats near a drainage canal. Despite the bustling surroundings—a hospital nearby, the clang of metal roads, and bustling shops—the man appeared serenely detached. With a flower in hand, he immersed himself in its fragrance, seemingly oblivious to the chaos around him. This poignant scene underscored the transient nature of external distractions, emphasizing the inner tranquility that the simple flower bestowed upon him.
Indeed, flowers possess a transformative power—they can illuminate dark days, uplift weary spirits, dispel despair, or amplify existing joy. As my young daughter, now sharing my love for flowers, aptly remarked while inhaling the scent of a rose one day: “Mama… it smells of happiness.”