The 21st World Rose Convention will be held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh – the heart of Incredible India – in 2028, as announced by the World Federation of Rose Societies (WFRS) at the recently concluded 20th World Rose Convention in Fukuyama, Japan. The event will mark the first time India hosts the prestigious international gathering, which will bring together more than 700 delegates from across the globe.
With its scenic backdrop of lakes and gardens, Bhopal is set to provide an ideal setting for the convention with thematic gardens, technical sessions, cultural performances, and a showcase of tourism experiences from across the state.
The official announcement was made at the 20th World Rose Convention, where Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) represented India. The delegation was led by Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board.
During the closing ceremony, Shri Shukla was ceremoniously handed over the WFRS flag, formally bestowing Madhya Pradesh with the responsibility of hosting the next edition of the convention.
In a significant milestone, Shri Sushil Prakash was elected as the new President of the World Federation of Rose Societies. He becomes the first Indian to be appointed to this prestigious post, further strengthening India’s global footprint in the horticultural and floriculture sector.
At the closing ceremony of the 20th convention, the WFRS flag was presented to Principal Secretary Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, marking the official transition of hosting duties.
The Indian delegation also included Shri Vivek Jude, Deputy Director (Events and Marketing), MPTB, Shri Mahendra Pratap Singh of Travel India Tours, and 14 members of the Madhya Pradesh Rose Society. Shri Ramkumar, Consul General of India in Fukuoka, was also present at the event.
The Japan convention saw the participation of over 500 international delegates from Australia, Japan, Finland, the United Kingdom, Europe, South Korea, and several other countries.
It is noteworthy that the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mangubhai Patel, is the Chief Patron of the Madhya Pradesh Rose Society.
Speaking at the occasion, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla stated, “It is a matter of immense pride for us to be given the honour of hosting the 21st World Rose Convention in the heart of India – Incredible Madhya Pradesh. The state is globally recognised for its rich cultural heritage, monuments, and natural beauty. We warmly welcome rose enthusiasts and guests from across the world to the Heart of India.”
Madhya Pradesh: A Blossoming Cultural Showcase
At the 20th World Rose Convention in Japan, the world witnessed the vibrant colours and culture of Madhya Pradesh. Through lectures and workshops, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board presented the state’s cultural heritage, biodiversity, and tourism offerings to an international audience.
Madhya Pradesh’s participation significantly enhanced its presence on the global tourism map and laid the foundation for showcasing the state’s biodiversity, cultural richness, and vision for sustainable tourism through the upcoming 21st World Rose Convention.
