Dehradun: 20 Feb 2026।
The three-day Basantotsav-2026 will be held at Lok Bhawan from February 27. At the curtain raiser on Friday, Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) announced that this year’s theme will be “Floral Healing: Nature’s Path to Well-being.”
The festival will be inaugurated at 10 am on February 27. The flower exhibition will remain open to the public free of cost from 1 pm to 6 pm on February 27 and from 9 am to 6 pm on February 28 and March 1.
Special focus on Bhojpatra, Governor’s Awards announced
A special postal cover based on Bhojpatra has been selected this year. Three outstanding farmers, three women farmers, and three startup youths will be honoured with the Governor’s Awards.
165 prizes across competitions
Competitions will be held in 15 categories with 55 sub-categories, and a total of 165 prizes will be awarded on March 1. Major segments include cut flowers, potted plants, bonsai, cactus and succulents, terrariums, honey, hanging pots, rangoli, and children’s painting contests. A hydroponic cultivation demonstration will be introduced for the first time.
Over 30 departments to participate
More than 30 departments, universities, and research institutions will take part. Cultural evenings, local folk performances, bands from armed and paramilitary forces, millet and Uttarakhand cuisine food courts, a stamp exhibition, and an art gallery will be key attractions.
Doon University will release a book on floral economics, while a visitor experience app is being developed for the event.
Officials said the festival showcases the blend of nature, culture, and livelihood, while promoting floriculture, tourism, and local entrepreneurship in Uttarakhand.
