Wayanad's 'Poopoli' flower fest till Jan 15: Here's what you get to see
Many first-time attendees join a growing list of loyal visitors as Poopoli's fame spreads among flower enthusiasts.
Many first-time attendees join a growing list of loyal visitors as Poopoli's fame spreads among flower enthusiasts.
Many first-time attendees join a growing list of loyal visitors as Poopoli's fame spreads among flower enthusiasts.
Wayanad: With hundreds of flower varieties, the 9th edition of the International Flower Show-Poopoli has evolved into an annual calendar event that annually draws over a lakh visitors from neighbouring districts and states. Organized by the Kerala Agricultural University and the Department of Agriculture at the Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS), Ambalavayal, near Sulthan Bathery, the event spans 13 acres of RARS land and offers a stunning visual experience. First launched in 2014, this 15-day festival begins every year on January 1.
Flowers on display
Amidst the hustle and bustle of visitors, the festival presents a vibrant display of flowers such as roses, chrysanthemums, dianthus, asters, celosia, phlox, gladiolus, petunias, and lilies, painting the venue in a riot of colours. According to organizers, the total number of varieties showcased has surpassed 800 this year. Floral gateways, plant-adorned arches, fountains lit with changing colours, vertical gardens, floral sculptures, and illuminated walkways enhance the ambience. Visitors are captivated by creative installations like water taps, teacups, peacocks, heart-shaped symbols, pull-carts, and toy trains, all decorated with flowers.
Technology and agro-tips
Many first-time attendees join a growing list of loyal visitors as Poopoli's fame spreads among flower enthusiasts. According to Varun Menon, Tea Development Officer at the Tea Board of India in Nilgiris, the festival is a platform for exploring new technologies, trends, and opportunities in floriculture and other crops. “It also provides farmer-entrepreneurs and self-help groups the chance to reach new buyers and establish Business-to-Business (B2B) connections,” he said. Menon supported farmer-entrepreneurs who showcased their products at stalls sponsored by the Tea Board of India.
Jacob Thomas, a retired employee from Nilambur, has been visiting Poopoli for three years. "Spending a few hours here is refreshing and energizing, and I also learn about the latest farming technologies," he shared. This year, the event management was leased to Advent Events, a Kozhikode-based agency, for ₹1.25 crore for the 15-day event. Music and cultural programs featuring prominent personalities are held every evening to attract more visitors. Among the most popular performers this year were Jassie Gift and Chitra Iyer. Stall spaces at the festival were rented out for amounts ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹2 lakh, depending on location.
Dr. Yamini Verma, Associate Director of RARS and Dean of the College of Agriculture, oversees the event. “Leasing the event allowed us to maintain control while ensuring our academic and administrative activities are unaffected,” she explained. She also noted that the event is expected to generate more revenue for the institution in the coming years. Held in a rural setting, Poopoli features over 100 stalls, providing the farming community access to the latest gadgets, tools, instruments, and unique consumer items essential for daily life. This year, the entry fee is ₹60, with free admission for children under 6. Special KSRTC and private bus services operate from Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery to the venue at Ambalavayal.