Sri Lankan Rose

By Randima Attygalle

'Kusum' implies 'flower'in the Sri Lankan context. True to the meaning of her name, Kusum Ariyasena a Sri Lankan residing in Harrow. U.K has createad a name for herself in the field of floral displays. Pinner Art exhibition-Kusum's solo art exhibition was also part of the Harrow Arts Festival held recently.

Nature seems to inspire Kusum. In her own words "landscapes and waterscapes are my favourites. Gardening and painting are my favourite hobbies. When you see natural beauty your mind is overcome by a fresh feeling."

Artistic Kusum believes in colours. To her a sunny day is a channel of expressing emotions. Optimistic as she is, she likes to enjoy the sunny days" rather than dwelling on the past.

Till Kusum 'blossomed' at No.25 , Oxleay Road in Harrow , the house was 'graced' only by a cherry blossom tree. With Kusum's green fingers residence No.25 turned out to be a haven amidst busy London'.

With her creative mind, Kusum did wonders in her garden , initially with hanging baskets and gradually moving to window boxes. Who would have thought of converting a garage into a makeshift greenhouse in winter? Kusum has with all her numerous kinds of seeds and twigs.

Kusum's entire household is a garden extending from her kitchen to her bathroom. Her own surprised children say it is a miracle "turning every corner into a happy colourful corner."

The seasons change but not Kusum. To her there is no distinction between summer and cold winter. Whatever the season, Kusum is busy maintaining her precious blossoms.

Good work is always rewarded. Kusum bagged the prize for best window box in the Harrow Blooms competition.

If anyone wonders what the secret behind Kusum's 'colourful life' is , there is not much to think about , as Kusum means flower and if it is flowers at Oxleay Road, Harrow , certainly Kusum is the rose behind it.

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