Situated between Khan Market and Safdarjung's Tomb on Lodi road.
Lodi garden is not only home to picnicking families, colorful birds and incredible architecture, but also the center of traditional Japanese practice of Bonsai.
Bonsai (Japanese: 盆栽) is the art of making miniature trees. It looks as if a futuristic torch like gadget has beamed upon a gigantic tree and made it smaller.
But Bonsai is different from dwarfing. Plant dwarfing uses advanced scientific technique called selective breeding, whereas Bonsai requires the skill of patience and cultivation in growing a tree like structure from the usual seeds.
What is the purpose of Bonsai trees? Why indulge in this ancient craft? The short answer is aesthetics. Admiration of natural beauty is easier from a human scale. At the same time, Bonsai is also a meditative exercise for the grower.
As there are different types of trees, so are different kinds of Bonsai styles. Lodi garden has a National Bonsai Park which has more than 20 such styles. The park is free to enter and quite spacious, with vital information on the subject.
In Japan, Bonsai evolved from a craft of a select few to a nationwide hobby after 1800. In 1868, the Meiji Emperor moved to the new capital in Tokyo. Bonsai trees were displayed both inside and outside the Meiji Palace.
In India, however, the popularity of Bonsai is much less. The national Bonsai park inside Lodi garden is a hidden gem that has introduced many Indians to this ancient practice of making miniature trees.
