Abu Dhabi, UAE – The vibrant floral festival of Bathukamma, organized by the Telangana Friends Association, was celebrated with immense enthusiasm over the weekend, drawing hundreds of Telugu families, particularly young women, who showcased their stunning flower stacks. Amidst the festive ambience, the event highlighted the strong cultural ties of the Telangana community, even thousands of kilometers away from their homeland. On Saturday, Abu Dhabi resonated with the sounds of Telangana Dappu traditional folklore drums played by members of the Madiga community, setting the stage for a lively procession.
The atmosphere was further enriched by the melodious performances of popular folk singers Astha Gangadher and Teju Priya, who entertained the crowd with regional songs, captivating attendees with their rhythmic beats. Senior Indian diplomats, including Amarnath Ashokan and Dr. Balaji, along with their spouses, graced the occasion, actively participating in the Bathukamma celebrations, which showcased the festival's unity and cultural significance.
"We have brought nearly 3 quintals of traditional flowers such as Tangedu, Gunugu, and Gummadi from different parts of Telangana to the UAE, ensuring a celebration in the true spirit of the festival," said Raja Srinivas Rao, president of the Telangana Friends Association. “This is an addition to the locally available flowers,” he added, emphasizing the festival's authenticity. The celebration featured Telangana’s beloved snack, Sakinalu, a deep-fried delicacy made from fresh ground rice flour, sesame, and carom seeds, which was transported from Warangal.
This traditional treat added to the festive fervor, delighting attendees and reminding them of home. Across the Gulf in Muscat, Oman, the Bathukamma festival was equally vibrant, organized by the Oman Telangana Samiti on Friday. The event attracted Telangana families from across the Sultanate, uniting them in celebration. Senior diplomat of the Indian Embassy, Tavishi Behal Pandey, attended as the chief guest, donning traditional Indian attire and actively participating in the festivities.
Prominent Omani businessman Talal Hamood Al Busaidi was also present as the guest of honor, highlighting the event's significance in fostering cultural exchanges. Gundeti Ganesh, convenor of the Telangana Samiti, shared, “Our members brought over a quintal of Tangedu flowers from Telangana to Muscat for the Bathukamma festival, alongside a variety of flowers collected from the Darfur region.” This commitment to tradition and community spirit exemplifies the resilience and enthusiasm of the Telangana diaspora. As both celebrations concluded, they stood as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of the Telangana community, uniting individuals through shared traditions and the beauty of the Bathukamma festival, even far from home.
