The Detroit chapter of the Telangana Development Forum’s (TDF)annual Bathukamma celebrations saw hundreds of women in the metro – Detroit region – paying rich tributes to their beloved Goddess, revered as mother nature, a life-giver, bestower of good health, prosperity, strength and courage .
More than 700 people gathered to observe the festival, which celebrates the bond between different kinds of flowers and water. The event started with the worship of Lord Ganapathi, followed by women dancing around an explosion of colours and singing praises for Gowri – bathukamma bathukamma vuyyalo.
“I am really happy to celebrate our culture. This festival, apart from what it is, signifies unity, love and sisterhood among women. It’s unique and perhaps the only festival filled with fun, music and so much celebration,” said 22-year-old Shalini Kopally. Her feelings were echoed by TDF-USA standing committee members, Uma Pishati and Suma Kalavala.
The evening also marked the worship of the ‘Shami’ tree to celebrate Dusara. The gathering exchanged Jammi leaves and pleasantly greeted each other. The aroma of Telangana dishes made the perfect ambience .
As the attention switched from the dance arena to the stage, there was a performance galore that hooked the audience. Film actor Lohit Kumar was at his wily best as the host and mimicry artist. TDF-USA general secretary Praveen Kesireddy thanked the volunteers and the efforts of TDF Detroit regional coordinators, Rajashekar Gaddam, Prashanth Dubbudu, Yadagir Ileni, Karunakar Kandukuri and Krishna Chellemella.
