Telangana Aims for World Record in Bathukamma Celebrations

Telangana is set to make a significant mark in the world of cultural celebrations as it attempts to break a world record during the Bathukamma festival on September 28, 2023. The event will take place at the LB Stadium in Hyderabad, where an estimated 10,000 women are expected to participate, creating the tallest Bathukamma ever constructed at 60 feet. This ambitious initiative aims to surpass the current record established during the Onam festival in Thrissur, Kerala, where 7,027 women performed a synchronized Thiruvathira dance.

The Bathukamma celebrations, a prominent cultural event in Telangana, will feature a variety of activities designed to engage participants and spectators alike. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has also organized celebrations at Bathukammakunta in Amberpet on September 1, with the Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, anticipated to attend. This venue holds historical significance, having recently been rejuvenated after facing threats of encroachment.

Community Engagement and Preparations

Officials from various departments are collaborating to ensure the success of the LB Stadium event. Enugu Narasimha Reddy, the Director of the Department of Culture and Language, expressed optimism about the event’s potential impact, stating, “The LB Stadium event will be a great achievement for the state in the global arena.” Daily Bathukamma events have also been scheduled at Ravindra Bharati throughout the Navaratri festival.

On September 30, an exhibition of Bathukammas will take place at Amraveerula Deepam, located opposite the Secretariat, followed by a procession to Tank Bund. The excitement surrounding the festival has permeated various parts of Hyderabad. At Nizam College, students and faculty came together to create a Bathukamma using flowers sourced from the campus, demonstrating the community spirit that the festival embodies. K. Shilpavalli, the Central Zone Deputy Commissioner of Police, participated in the program, reinforcing the event’s significance within the college community. Principal Prof. A.V. Rajashekar remarked that the initiative fosters unity among students and staff.

Cultural Significance and Broader Celebrations

As Bathukamma celebrations unfold across the city, Durga Puja pandals have incorporated Bathukamma-themed decorations, showcasing the blending of cultural festivities. District collectorates have also organized events at their headquarters, further highlighting the widespread enthusiasm for the festival.

Despite inclement weather affecting parts of the city, women have shown remarkable enthusiasm in playing Bathukamma, illustrating the festival’s deep cultural roots. The Bangiya Sanskritik Sangha is commemorating the diamond jubilee of Sree Durga Puja from September 24 to October 2 at Keys Girls High School, with invitations extended to the Chief Minister by President Deepak Bhattacharjee and his team to attend the celebrations.

The upcoming record attempt not only aims to celebrate tradition but also serves as an opportunity for the Telangana community to showcase its cultural vibrancy on a global stage.