Special day for this Chennai gardener

Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, February 23

A South Indian gardener, who dons the look of a Sikh gentleman, often attracts passers-by while working at the Rose Garden in Sector 16 here. Ranganathan (59), who speaks fluent Punjabi in the South Indian accent, has been tending to roses at the Rose Garden since 1966.

“I came to Chandigarh in 1977 only to visit the city, which I had heard is beautiful. I did not feel like going back to Chennai. I got the job of a labourer and later started working as a gardener. I used to perform drama in Chennai and used to keep a ponytail. When I saw many Sikhs here, I also started wearing turban. When in Rome do as Romans do,” said Ranganathan, who belongs to Chennai.

He might have been working here for the past 42 years, but Sunday will be a special day for him. He will be the guest of honour at the concluding day of the Rose Festival where he will give away prizes to winners in various categories.

“The love I got in Chandigarh, I may not have gotten in Chennai. I am humbled with the gesture of the authorities who decided to invite me as a guest of honour on the concluding day of the festival. It is a respect not only for me but also for all those who have been working here with me,” he said.

Ranganathan, who started with a salary of Rs 5.50 per day, today earns Rs 46,000 per month.

“Yes, it is a long journey. But with an increase in salary, my expenditures also increased. My son is studying in Chandigarh University,” said Ranganathan, who resides in Bapu Dham Colony.

City Mayor Rajesh Kalia is supposed to bring Ranganathan, his wife and son from his house in his official vehicle to the Rose Garden on Sunday.