Floral Controversy: Floriculture Association Clashes with MP Over 'National Waste' Comment

The South India Floriculture Association criticized BJP MP Tejasvi Surya for his remarks on flower bouquets being a ''national waste.'' This statement, made during his wedding event, upset floriculture advocates who emphasized its importance to farmers' livelihoods and cultural practices in Karnataka and Chikkaballapura.

The South India Floriculture Association voiced criticism against BJP MP Tejasvi Surya following his controversial remark labeling flower bouquets as a ''national waste.'' This comment was made during Surya's wedding invite, dissuading guests from bringing flowers to the event.

The association, led by T M Aravind, highlighted the extensive impact of floriculture on Karnataka's economy, where flower cultivation sustains millions of livelihoods. Aravind deemed Surya's statement inappropriate, noting the flowers' significance to local farmers.

Industry representatives stressed the cultural importance of flowers in Hindu rituals and urged against dismissing their value. The association also recalled BJP MP K Sudhakar's parliamentary support for floriculture in Chikkaballapura, underscoring the need for increased industry recognition.