Hyderabad: Telangana’s floral festival Bathukamma will run for ten days this year, from September 21 to 30. Usually a nine-day event, it will add one day because of tithi dvayam (dual lunar dates).
Women across Telangana decorate Bathukamma with seasonal flowers and wear festive attire. The festival, a core part of Telangana’s traditions, may be observed for nine days in some districts and ten in others.
Historians say the festival flourished during the Kakatiya era. In line with that legacy, the government plans to inaugurate this year’s celebrations at the Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda, a key symbol of Kakatiya art and architecture.
To showcase Telangana’s culture globally, the state will hold large-scale events under the tourism department. Meanwhile, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) will attempt a Guinness World Record during the festivities.
On September 28, LB Stadium will host a mass Bathukamma celebration with participation expected from over 10,000 women. The Urban Community Development (UCD) wing is coordinating with women’s groups and female government employees to ensure a strong turnout.
Additionally, organisers will erect a 51-foot Bathukamma as a special attraction. Kerala’s Onam festival currently holds a record for a large community celebration; Telangana authorities aim to surpass it with this year’s Bathukamma events.
