Thayanithi Kulenthra, a lotus fan from Malaysia, visited the Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden with her daughter, Romila Kulenthran, in late July 2012. They also toured the Aquatic Plant Garden, the special lotus spot, and the Lotus Community in Xinbang town.

Malaysia's wild lotuses are diminishing and in danger of extinction because of environmental destruction. Thayanithi began to cultivate lotuses in September 2001 and gradually built a small lotus garden at home. She talked to local citizens about lotus history and was attracted by the flower's noble attributes.

With the support of her husband and daughter, she decided to travel around the world to take photos of different lotuses. She wanted to explore their inviting stories and write a paper entitled "Flower of the Gods".

Thayanithi's trip to Shanghai is part of her Chinese lotus tour. She also went to Guangzhou and Hangzhou. After the visits, Thayanithi and her daughter were deeply impressed with Chenshan garden's beautiful scenery and China's great lotus varieties and long cultivation history.

By Li Xiaonan

Thayanithi Kulenthra, a lotus fan from Malaysia，and her daughter

Thayanithi Kulenthra, a lotus fan from Malaysia