Hyderabad: The ‘Alai Balai’ event, originally conceptualized by Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya 19 years ago, was celebrated in Hyderabad on Sunday. This program was created as an apolitical platform to bring people from different backgrounds together, and it has grown into a significant annual cultural event.
Several prominent leaders attended the event, including Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. In addition, Governors from five states were present: Telangana Governor Vishnu Dev Verma, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh, Meghalaya Governor C H Vijayashankar, and Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagade. Union ministers like G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay, Andhra Pradesh Minister Satya Kumar, and former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu also joined, along with several former governors.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy reflected on the importance of ‘Alai Balai.’ He noted that it has become a significant event in Telangana, bringing together leaders from different political backgrounds. He praised Dattatreya, stating that he is respected by all political parties for his contributions. The Chief Minister also highlighted how ‘Alai Balai’ played a key role during the Telangana statehood movement, helping to unite people from different political and social backgrounds.
Revanth Reddy reminisced about the Telangana statehood agitation, where people from various ideologies—ranging from RSS to Communists—came together for the cause of a separate state. He also explained that for the people of Telangana, the festival of Dasara holds deep cultural significance. He compared the spirit of ‘Alai Balai’ to the festival, where people used to exchange ‘Jammi Chettu’ with elders as a sign of respect, symbolizing unity and togetherness.
The Chief Minister further emphasized the importance of preserving Telangana’s culture and traditions. He thanked Dattatreya and his daughter Vijaya Lakshmi, who is the chairperson of the Alai Balai Foundation, for their efforts in continuing this important cultural initiative. After the speeches, the guests were treated to a traditional Telangana lunch.
Overall, the event successfully celebrated the rich culture of Telangana while promoting unity among people from various walks of life.
