For most people, childhood dreams fade away with time. But for 52-year-old Raminder Singh, a manager by profession, a dream that started in his childhood is still growing stronger every day. Raminder’s journey into the world of bonsai began in 1990 when he watched a programme on bonsai on Doordarshan.
Fascinated by the art of turning large trees into miniature versions, he decided to try something different with plants. At a time when information on bonsai was scarce and books on the subject were beyond his budget, Raminder relied on observation and determination to learn the craft.
During visits to exhibitions, he would spend hours reading books and magazines, gathering whatever knowledge he could about bonsai techniques.
Using his imagination, observation and patience, Raminder started experimenting on his own. He learned the art through trial and error, shaping plants into beautiful miniature trees. His first bonsai creations were a Peepal tree and a Banyan tree, which he started nearly 30 years ago. Both plants are still with him today and continue to attract attention with their tiny yet majestic appearance.
Over the years, Raminder has developed bonsai of many species, including Pilkhan, Pine, Sheesham, Peepal, Goolar, Cheeku, Raspberry, Falai, Garoona, Shehtoot, Champa, Jade, Tecoma, Banyan, Neem and Amla.
Today, he has a collection of more than 100 bonsai plants. Some of them are over 30 years old, while around 15 more plants are currently being prepared as future bonsai.
Six months ago, on the insistence of a friend and with the help of his children, Raminder started a YouTube channel “Bonsai Boss.” Through videos and posts, he shares bonsai-making techniques such as pruning, wiring and bending of plants. His aim is not only to promote bonsai but also to spread awareness about the importance of plants in human life.
Raminder believes that plants are living beings that deserve love and care. He has also addressed several programmes as a guest speaker, educating students about plantation and environmental conservation. “Planting a sapling is not enough,” he says. “Our duty towards the environment starts with plantation. We must care for the plant, water it and nurture it so that it grows into a healthy tree.”
Through his bonsai creations and awareness campaigns, Raminder Singh is showing that with passion, patience and dedication, even a childhood dream can continue to flourish for a lifetime.