FROM THE OBEROI CECIL, SHIMLA

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF FRIENDSHIP REDEFINED

"When guests appreciate my work I feel very happy" says Kuldeep Sharma (38) the florist at The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla. Recently I have been to this hotel. The first thing that caught my attention was a beautiful round floral arrangement in the lobby. I was escorted to the lounge, an 85 feet tall atrium lobby which happens to be the highlight of this hotel.

I was very much impressed by the ambience of the lounge; but, I was more drawn to the round floral arrangement right at the centre of the hall which happens to be the brainchild of Kuldeep Sharma. See his picture with his creation - a beautiful, resplendent floral arrangement.

"It takes 45 minutes to give shape to a floral arrangement like this" informed Kuldeep who will be using as many as 250 sticks. "Every week, we change this. I really enjoy doing my job".

Many guests beckon him and ask curiosity laden questions on his lovely creations and arrangements. Some guests will stand next to him and watch him while he gives final shape to the floral set up.

"Many foreigner guests take pictures of my floral art. They also take pictures with me.....which makes me so happy" quips Kuldeep.

Remember, Kuldeep does not have a degree in horticulture. Everything he learnt is from Oberoi Cecil, Shimla. Since 1998, ever since he joined this property, he has been a self-starter. Presently, his role is to ensure cleanliness of the back areas along with looking after the gardens.

Listen to Yogesh, the Housekeeping Supervisor on what he has to say about Kuldeep: "Kuldeep is a solution seller. Very good in multitasking. Any emergency, he will be there to help happily. He has even helped us in laundry when required".

Kangra (300 kms from Shimla) born Kuldeep is married to Santosh, a

Homemaker and is blessed with three daughters- Muskan (12) Isha (08) and Khyati (01).

Now, some details about the flowers- called Peruvian Lily or Lily of the Incas is a genus of flowering plants in the family Alstromeria. Available aplenty in Shimla. These miniature lilies in pink and orange often represent friendship and devotion. As friendship often has ups and downs, so do the leaves of lilies.

"I learnt everything from Ashok Sharma" recalls Kuldeep with gratitude. Ashok Sharma heads the horticulture division of this hotel.

Text and Pictures: R Kesava Mallia in Shimla