The Telangana Association of United Kingdom (TAUK) organized Bathukamma and Dasara celebrations in London, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Telangana and promoting its handloom industry. The event, held with great enthusiasm, was attended by several dignitaries, including Anil Kurmachalam, the founder of TAUK and former chairman of the Telangana State Film Development Corporation.
The celebrations were marked by traditional Bathukamma songs, floral arrangements, and cultural performances. Women offered prayers to Goddess Gauri, while children participated with their own Bathukammas. The event also featured Kolatam dances and traditional games, creating a vibrant atmosphere that echoed the cultural essence of Telangana.
A special focus of the event was on promoting handloom products. Participants were encouraged to wear handloom clothing, reflecting the association's commitment to supporting the handloom sector. This initiative drew inspiration from the efforts of former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and former Minister K. T. Rama Rao, as noted by TAUK President Rathnakar Kadudula.
The Dasara festivities included special prayers to a Shammi tree brought from India, followed by the traditional Alai Balai gathering. This gathering, symbolizing friendship and social harmony, saw participants exchanging handloom shawls and Jammi leaves, which are traditionally regarded as symbols of gold. Festive greetings were exchanged, reinforcing the spirit of unity and goodwill.
Prominent guests at the event included Ruth Cadbury, Member of Parliament; former MP Virendra Sharma; Hounslow Mayor Ranjit Gill; and Hounslow Council leader Shantanu Rajawat. They commended the Telangana community for its contributions to public service and praised TAUK's efforts to preserve and promote Telangana's traditions abroad. The dignitaries emphasized the importance of cultural diversity and unity in a multicultural city like London, offering their support to the community whenever needed.
TAUK's advisory board chairman Matta Reddy and events in-charge Malla Reddy highlighted the association's aim to incorporate social responsibility into its activities. Vice-presidents Shushmuna Reddy, Suresh Budagam, and Rakesh Patel reiterated their commitment to spreading Telangana's culture to a wider international audience.
In recognition of the best Bathukammas, gold coins were awarded, and gifts were distributed to women who brought floral arrangements. The event was attended by several key members of TAUK, including Supraja Pulusu, Satyapal, Srikanth Jella, Ashok Dusari, and others, along with youth wing leader Tarun.
As the celebrations concluded, the emphasis remained on promoting Telangana's cultural heritage and handloom sector, with Anil Kurmachalam calling for continued efforts to showcase these aspects on international platforms. The event not only celebrated traditional festivities but also served as a reminder of the cultural richness and diversity that Telangana offers to the world.
