Hyderabad : Telangana’s state festival, Bathukamma, commenced on Wednesday with vibrant celebrations and traditional fervor across the state. Recognized as a symbol of Telangana culture, the festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm by women and girls for nine consecutive days, during which nature is revered and honored.
The festivities involve singing and dancing around intricately arranged flower displays, known as Bathukamma. At the conclusion of the festival, participants immerse these floral creations in local ponds, symbolizing a deep connection with nature.
Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Telangana on this auspicious occasion. The Governor expressed his wishes to the women, stating, “Bathukamma, a festival deeply connected to Mother Nature, is a sacred celebration of life and feminine energy. It is a vibrant expression of devotion by the women of Telangana, who, through their creativity and prayers, invoke the divine blessings of Goddess Gauri.”
Highlighting the significance of the flowers used in the festival, the Governor noted, “The colourful seasonal wildflowers, crafted into the beautiful idols of Bathukamma, are nature’s gift, endowed with medicinal properties that help cleanse our water bodies enriched by monsoon rains. These flowers, arranged with devotion, symbolize the harmony between nature and life.” He also emphasized the festival’s role in reuniting families, as daughters return to their ancestral homes to partake in the celebrations.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also conveyed his wishes, underscoring the importance of Bathukamma as a revered festival where women celebrate and worship nature. He encouraged everyone to partake in the festivities with joy and enthusiasm, stating, “The Bathukamma festival is a testament to the unity of life, where people share their happiness and hardships together.”
Revanth Reddy prayed to the “Gauramma” deity to illuminate the lives of the people and alleviate their struggles. He noted that the unique celebrations, characterized by women decorating Bathukamma with flowers, singing, and dancing, reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Telangana’s villages.
Since the formation of Telangana in 2014, Bathukamma has been officially celebrated as the state festival, serving as a proud tribute to the region’s traditions, unity, and the nurturing spirit of womanhood. The festival stands as a vibrant reminder of the rich cultural heritage and the enduring bond between the people and nature.