Bathukamma festivities commence with pomp and gaiety in Warangal

Bathukamma, Telangana’s unique floral festival celebrated with songs and dance by women across the State, began on a grand note with Engili Pula Bathukamma at the historic Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda on Sunday evening. Warangal, regarded as Telangana’s cultural capital, marked the occasion with much pomp and gaiety.

Women and girls, dressed in festive attire, took part in the celebrations, formally launched in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao and other dignitaries. The State government, through the Department of Culture, has made elaborate arrangements for the nine-day event, which will conclude on September 30 with Saddula Bathukamma.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Vikramarka highlighted the festival’s spiritual significance, noting that women across Telangana worship Goddess Gauramma with deep devotion, offering prayers with an array of flowers. He wished for the festival to be celebrated vibrantly across all nine days, noting that it brings prosperity to the State and its people. He also underscored the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment.

Bathukamma festivities commence on a grand note at Thousand Pillar temple in Hanamkonda on Sunday. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, Tourism Minister Jupalpally Krishna Rao and others attended the event.
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ARRANGEMENT

The inaugural programme, organised by the Telangana Music Academy, featured a Kakatiya dance performance that highlighted the State’s cultural heritage. Earlier, the Deputy Chief Minister and others watched a dance-drama on Chakali Ailamma, a prominent figure in the Telangana armed struggle.

Dedicated to Goddess Gauri, a manifestation of Parvati symbolising fertility and life, this nine-day floral festival is more than just tradition. From September 21 to 30, women across the State will craft intricate flower stacks, sing folk songs, and dance in rhythmic circles to invoke blessings for prosperity and family well-being.

Women celebrate Bathukamma at Telangana Bhavan in Hyderabad on Sunday.
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SIDDHANT THAKUR

K; Kavitha taking part in the Bathukamma celebrations in Chintamadaka, the native village of BRS chief and former CM K Chandrashekhar Rao in Siddipet district.
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ARRANGEMENT

Ministers Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, Jupally Krishna Rao, Danasari Anasuya (Seethakka), Konda Surekha and Warangal Mayor Gundu Sudharani attended the event.