Dehradun, Uttarakhand: A vibrant celebration of flowers, heritage, and local craftsmanship began in Dehradun on Friday as the much-awaited Vasantotsav got underway. The three-day festival is drawing visitors from across the region to experience Uttarakhand’s rich cultural and natural legacy.

Organised in the state capital, the festival showcases a stunning array of indigenous flower species native to the Himalayan region. One of the key attractions is the delicate yellow Foyle flower, a wild mountain bloom considered a traditional symbol of spring in Uttarakhand and deeply rooted in local folklore and customs.

Apart from the floral exhibition, Vasantotsav also serves as a platform for local entrepreneurs and artisans. Participants are displaying a range of natural and herbal products made from aromatic plants, underlining the growing production capacity and market potential of these eco-friendly goods.

The festival goes beyond flowers, offering visitors a taste of the hills through traditional cuisine and handcrafted products. Exhibits of iron craftsmanship — blending age-old skills with contemporary designs — have also garnered attention, reflecting the region’s enduring artisanal traditions.

Families, flower enthusiasts, food lovers, and art admirers have thronged the venue, making the event a lively cultural gathering. Visitors have also appreciated the inclusive arrangements at the festival, noting that the venue has been designed to be accessible and friendly for people with special abilities.

Vasantotsav will remain open to the public until March 1.