As the countdown to the birth of Telangana, the 29th State of India, began on Sunday, celebrations erupted all over its territory. When dusk fell, the sky lit up in myriad colours of brilliant fireworks in several districts. People cheered, whistled, turned nostalgic and danced in gay abandon for Monday’s inauguration of the new State.
Women were playing ‘Batukamma’ on the main roads of all districts. Hyderabad led the celebrations with the People’s Plaza on the picturesque Necklace Road reflecting the joy and mirth.
Sporting pink scarves, Telangana supporters set about preparing for the big event. Even telephone greetings turned to “Jai Telangana” instead of the usual “hello.”
The entire stretch of Raj Bhavan Road was festooned in pink. The Old City too joined in the celebrations. Noted singer Khan Athar set the tone by rendering soulful ghazals and national integration songs at Charminar.
At Gandhi Bhavan, the Congress headquarters, State unit president Ponnala Laxman paid homage to Telangana martyrs. The BJP, and even the TDP and the YSR Congress Party also took part in celebrations.
TRS leader K. Chandrasekhar Rao will be sworn in as Chief Minister at 8.15 a.m.
