Hyderabad came alive with the start of the Bathukamma festival. On the first day, called Engili Pula Bathukamma, flower markets in the city, including Secunderabad’s Monda Market, Gudimalkapur, and Mozamjahi Market, were buzzing with activity. Women and families flocked to these markets, picking out seasonal flowers for their traditional floral arrangements. The air was filled with the festive spirit of Navaratri, with music, chatter, and vibrant colors everywhere. Engili Pula Bathukamma marks the beginning of the festival with small floral arrangements made from fresh, fragrant flowers, symbolizing new starts.
Shoppers gathered baskets of local flowers like ‘Banti’, ‘Sagadi’, and ‘Gunugu’, alongside fruits such as bananas, apples, and oranges. A vendor named Renuka mentioned, “Families ensure they’re fully prepared for the festival with flowers and fruits on this first day. Even if prices rise, people don’t hesitate to buy.” As the day progressed, Monda Market stayed busy, with everyone eager to celebrate this traditional day.
In Secunderabad and throughout Telangana, Bathukamma celebrations include events at well-known sites, mixing tradition with cultural activities and community involvement. The schedule kicks off with Bathukamma’s opening at the Thousand Pillar Temple and tree planting events on September 21. Festivities continue at Shilparamam in Hyderabad and Pillalamarri in Mahabubnagar on September 22, then at Buddhavanam in Nalgonda on September 23. On September 24, celebrations move to Kaleshwaram Mukteswara Temple in Bhupalpally and the City Centre in Karimnagar. September 25 features Bathukamma at Bhadrachalam Temple in Khammam, Jogulamba Alampur in Gadwal, and an art camp at the State Art Gallery in Hyderabad, lasting until September 29.
On September 26, activities will take place at Ali Sagar Reservoir in Nizamabad, Adilabad, and Medak, with a cycle rally on Necklace Road in Hyderabad. September 27 features a women’s bike rally around Tank Bund and a Bathukamma carnival in the IT Corridor. A world record attempt for the tallest Bathukamma, planned to be 50 feet tall with over 10,000 women participating, is scheduled for September 28 at LB Stadium in Hyderabad. September 29 will host ‘best Bathukamma’ contests, a Saras Fair by self-help groups, and community events by RWAs and HYSEA across Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy districts. The festival will end on September 30 with a grand floral parade at Tank Bund, including a vintage car rally, Bathukamma-themed floats, an Ikebana floral art exhibit, and a 3D mapping laser show on the Secretariat.
