AHMEDABAD, 02 January (H.S.): The 14th Ahmedabad International Flower Show 2026 achieved two Guinness World Records on Thursday for the largest flower mandala and the largest flower portrait of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, marking a hat-trick of global accolades for the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation's annual extravaganza.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the event as captivating on Friday via X, commending its blend of public participation, creativity, and Ahmedabad's vibrant spirit intertwined with nature's allure.

Monumental Floral Feats

The colossal flower mandala, spanning a diameter of approximately 33.6 meters and covering 886.79 square meters at the Sabarmati Riverfront Event Centre, surpassed the prior benchmark of 706.86 square meters, verified through high-precision Differential Global Positioning System measurements.

Sardar Patel's floral portrait measured 41.17 meters long, 8 meters wide, and 329.4 square meters in area—far exceeding the 50 square meter minimum—crafted with millions of blooms to honor the Iron Man's legacy of national unity.These triumphs follow records for the longest flower structure in 2024 and the largest flower bouquet in 2025, solidifying the show's international prestige.

Thematic Grandeur and PM's Endorsement

Inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel at the Sabarmati Riverfront on Thursday under the theme Bharat Ek Gatha, the exhibition weaves India's cultural tapestry through zones depicting mythology, festivals like Diwali and Holi, modern achievements in high-speed rail and space, and a 30-meter women empowerment sculpture.

PM Modi noted the event's escalating grandeur, sharing striking images that capture its imaginative evolution.Running until January 22, it draws crowds with QR-code audio guides, nurseries, and eco-friendly features amid New Year festivities.

Visitor Access and Legacy

Entry fees stand at Rs 80 on weekdays and Rs 100 on weekends and holidays, with complimentary access for persons with disabilities, soldiers, children under 12, and AMC school students; non-AMC students pay Rs 10 for weekday mornings.Patel described it as a celebration of heritage, unity, and innovation under Modi's inspiration, elevating Ahmedabad's global profile as a heritage City.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar