As the 85th death anniversary of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye, approaches on November 10, flower shops nationwide are working tirelessly to meet the escalating demand for floral arrangements that will be used in commemorative events. This year, with the nation celebrating the centennial of the Turkish Republic, there is a significant anticipation of high participation in nationwide events honoring the great leader who breathed his last in Istanbul on November 10, 1938.
In response to this heightened historical significance, businesses in the flower industry have reported an unprecedented surge in orders compared to previous years. One flower shop owner noted the remarkable increase in carnation sales for this year’s programs, with carnations nearly sold out. This scarcity has prompted a heightened interest in pansies as an alternative choice.
Ahmet Köylü, who operates a flower shop in Central Anatolia’s Eskişehir, revealed that their customer base primarily consists of officials from educational institutions and corporate entities. Köylü explained, “Our carnation supply is running low, and we had to place additional orders. The decorations of Atatürk busts and the distribution of carnations to the public during the events on October 29 [Republic Day] were truly magnificent and filled with enthusiasm. As November 10 approaches, there is once again a remarkable demand for carnations, and pansies are selling rapidly.”
Every November 10 at 9:05 a.m., precisely the time when Atatürk passed away, sirens are sounded across the nation, and a one-minute moment of silence is observed. The upcoming commemorative events are expected to draw a significant number of participants, as the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the Turkish Republic’s centennial are celebrated with deep reverence and remembrance.
