Mon Jan 13 04:50:13 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Celebrates Bhogi with Traditional Festivities
**Hyderabad, January 14:** Telangana is ringing in Sankranti with vibrant Bhogi celebrations across the state. Villages and cities alike witnessed lively festivities as people, young and old, lit traditional Bhogi bonfires in the streets this morning. Women adorned their homes with intricate rangoli designs, particularly elaborate “ratham muggulu” (chariot rangoli) featuring “gobbemma” (small clay figurines). Children enjoyed playful bathing with “regina pandlu” (a type of berry). Temples saw a surge in devotees attending special pujas.
The pre-Sankranti rush saw many Hyderabad residents return to their hometowns, adding to the festive atmosphere. Hari Dasus (religious singers) and adorned bullock carts, known as “DooDoo Basavannulu,” visited homes, singing devotional songs and blessing children.
In Nizamabad district, Bhogi celebrations were particularly enthusiastic. Several rural areas saw traditional bonfire events, accompanied by dances and captivating bullock cart performances.
Prominent figures also joined in the festivities. Former MLA Kancharla Bhupal Reddy celebrated with his family in his village, lighting a Bhogi bonfire. Similarly, Suryapet MLA and former minister Jagadish Reddy participated in Bhogi celebrations in the district, engaging with youth and children in games around the bonfires. The festive spirit is expected to continue through Sankranti.
First Piper 