FASCINATING ARRAY: Syed Ali displaying his creations at the Navy Mela in Visakhapatnam. — Photo: C.V. Subrahmanyam

VISAKHAPATNAM: Syed Ali stands tall among his small creations. Even in his short stature, he seems like a kindly giant as he explains to visitors about his pretty Bonsai models at the ongoing Navy Mela.

"It has been 16 years since I took up Bonsai as a hobby," says Mr. Ali who is working as an instructor at the apprentice school in Naval Dockyard. Always keen on gardening he picked up the art of Bonsai through reading numerous books and magazines.

Dedication

As a hobby Bonsai requires immense time, patience and dedication. This Japanese art enhances the beauty of the surroundings wherever it is placed. Commonly thought to be an expensive hobby, he says the cost for Bonsai creations depends on the market, the buyer and the maker. The size, shape and age of the model also determine the cost. A Bonsai plant and its accompanying garden require tremendous care and nurturing. To bring shape to the model it takes a minimum of four to five years . Saplings of trees such as Banyan and Peepal are commonly used in Bonsai. These plants are subjected to carefully shaping and pruning every two-three months to give them the desired form. Selection of plants is important, as Bonsai cannot be applied to all types of saplings of fruit bearing trees. Intricate miniatures of bridges, ponds and houses are specially made to accompany the plants in the model. "I have always received assistance from my department in my endeavours," he adds.

Mr. Ali also takes part in the annual flower exhibition at Kailasagiri and conducts demonstrations. Those interested can contact him at (0891) 2730688.

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