Replicate nature in a pot with this bonsai workshop in Chennai

CHENNAI: Bodhi- The Chennai Bonsai Association is a 14-year-old non-profit organisation in the city that has been working towards spreading the art of bonsai and popularising the several techniques present in the process of gardening the plant.

The thirty-member organisation is conducting a beginner’s bonsai workshop on September 18. Speaking to DT Next Thomas George, committee member of Bodhi says, “The participants will be trained by senior committee members. These people are experienced and have been taking care of bonsai plants for the last 14 years. The workshop will cover basics like how to pick suitable soil, how to fertilise and water the plant and how to care for it.”

He says that the workshop will also teach participants effective procedures to trim the leaves of the plant. The talk will also help people understand the various styles there are while nursing the plant.

George says that at the end of the guided program, the participants will get a pre bonsai plant to practice everything they have learned. Through the program, they are also hoping for people to join the club and be a part of their organisation’s monthly discussions.

But why is bonsai so important? He says, “The process of nursing and looking after the plant is not just a process; it is an art. Once the plant reaches a particular stage, you have to uproot it entirely and trim its roots to prevent it from growing further. Trimming the leaves and twigs carefully, without damaging the healthy ones is also a crucial aspect.

“We are riddled with worries and tension from work, personal life, relationships and whatnot. And so the process of nurturing this plant requires patience. It takes time for a tiny flower to grow or a leaf to appear. You get so invested in this and this fruitful process gives you peace.”

Bodhi will also be displaying around 70 – 100 bonsai plants belonging to members of the organisation. Along with it, people can also purchase gardening products for their bonsai from the event.

The event is taking place in Sankara Hall, Alwarpet on September 17 and 18 from 10 am to 6.30 pm. The entry is free, while the workshop costs Rs 1,500.