Date:05/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/05/stories/2008120560160300.htm

New Delhi

Japanese honour for Ikebana master

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: Japanese Emperor Akihito has honoured the Director of Sogetsu School of Ikebana, Delhi Chapter, Veena Dass, with “The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” in recognition of her outstanding contributions to India-Japan relationship. A ceremony for presentation of the decoration was hosted by the Embassy of Japan here on Thursday.

According to the Japan Information Centre, Veena Dass’ name is synonymous with Ikebana, a traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement with a history of over a thousand years.

Ms. Dass’ tryst with Ikebana began during her stay in Japan in 1960. After studying at the Ikenobo and Ohara School of Ikebana in Japan, she became one of the founding members of Ikebana International Delhi Chapter in 1965 and also the Sogetsu School of Ikebana Delhi Chapter in 1966. She has also been president of Ikebana International from 1990-1992.