“Not exactly,” said Hari, “It is a variant of Telugu -a dialect. But, it has not been given the status of a language and was humiliated on many occasions. Even our festivals are not given much importance. Indeed, our Telangana language is part of our culture,” Hari explained.

“What are the special festivals of our state, dad? ”Kiran asked.

“We celebrate the main festivals as well as the regional festivals. Festivals like Bonalu, Bathukamma and Peerla Panduga reflect our life,” said Hari.

Meanwhile, Hari saw Laxmi coming.

“Now, it’s your mother’s turn. She will let you know about our festivals,” Hari said.

“We celebrate our festivals with warmth and fervor. Bonalu , our state festival, is celebrated during Aashaadam as thanksgiving to the goddess Mahankali for fulfilling our wishes. We prepare rice cooked with milk and jaggery , put in a Ghatam – the decorated pot and carry the pot in a procession singing songs. The fete culminates as the ghatams are offered to the local goddesses,” said Laxmi.

Indu , Kiran’s sister joined them and said, “Yes, last Tuesday, we saw the jubilant procession.”

Indu asked, “Mum, what about Bathukamma? ”

“Bathukamma festival is celebrated as part of Dussehra. The festival has historical and religious significance. Women carry Bathukamma , beautifully stacked with Tangedu, Gunugu and Chamanthi flowers to the meeting points. Making circles around Bathukamma, womenfolk sing