New Delhi: Valentine's Day may mean expression of love for some and an invasion of Western civilisation on India for others but the day and the week leading to it means brisk business for florists of the national capital.
Roses are in great demand during the week and the city's florists offer several varieties with some bouquet of flowers costing as much as Rs 21,000. Anuj Rajput, owner of Shri Sai Florist in Tilak Nagar, said, "Just like other shopkeepers prepare for Diwali, we prepare for Valentine's Day. On this day, the price of a single rose ranges from Rs 50 to Rs 100. During off season, a rose is sold for Rs 20 to Rs 30". He said Bangalore roses are a rage among youngsters. Compared to normal roses, the Bangalore variety remains fresh for a week, he said. Anuj said along with single flowers, bouquets are much in demand. The bouquets are decorated with lilies and carnation along with roses and the prices range anywhere from Rs 500 to Rs 21,000.
Anuj said he sells more roses on Valentine's Day than Rose Day. People book special bouquets for Valentine's Day a week in advance. Neeraj, another florist said Valentine's Day means brisk business for him as roses which are normally available for Rs 20 sell for as high as Rs 100 on the day. "I have been selling roses for the last 14 years. Nowadays only youngsters are excited about the day. Earlier even married couples bought roses," he said.
