The Bathukamma festival, Telangana’s special festival of flowers, began yesterday with Engilipula Bathukamma. 

 

The celebrations will continue for nine days. Women make the Bathukamma using colourful flowers like Tangedu, Gunugu, marigold and chrysanthemum. The flowers are arranged in a tall, dome-like shape.

 

A small idol of Goddess Gauramma, made of turmeric, is placed on top. In the evening, women gather around the Bathukamma. They sing folk songs and clap their hands as they dance in circles. At the end, the Bathukamma is immersed in a pond or lake. Each of the nine days has a different name.

 

After Engilipula Bathukamma on the first day, come Atukula, Muddapappu, Nanabiyyam, Atla, Aligina, Vepakayala and Vennamuddala Bathukamma. The festival ends on the last day with Saddula Bathukamma. A different food offering is made to the Goddess each day. This festival worships nature. It stands for the unity of women and the rich culture of Telangana.