Bathukamma is a vibrant floral festival celebrated by Hindu women in Telangana, India. The name “Bathukamma” translates to “come back to life” in Telugu, symbolizing the festival’s essence of renewal and worship.
Cultural Significance The festival spans nine days, concluding with Durgashtami, and is linked to Boddemma, which marks the end of the rainy season. Each day, women gather to sing traditional songs and celebrate around beautifully arranged stacks of seasonal and medicinal flowers, honoring Goddess Gauri.
Festival Dates for 2024 Bathukamma begins on October 1, 2024, and concludes on October 9, 2024. The festival kicks off with Chinna Bathukamma on the first day, Bhadrapada Amavasya, and culminates with Pedda Bathukamma on Ashwayuja Ashtami.
Schedule of Bathukamma Days
| Day | Date | Bathukamma Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oct 1 | Engili Puvvu Bathukamma (Chinna Bathukamma) |
| 2 | Oct 2 | Atukula Bathukamma |
| 3 | Oct 3 | Muddapuvvu Bathukamma |
| 4 | Oct 4 | Nanabiyyam Bathukamma |
| 5 | Oct 5 | Atla Bathukamma |
| 6 | Oct 6 | Aligina Bathukamma |
| 7 | Oct 7 | Vepakayala Bathukamma |
| 8 | Oct 8 | Venna Muddala Bathukamma |
| 9 | Oct 9 | Saddula Bathukamma (Chaddula/Pedda Bathukamma) |
Daily Offerings and Rituals Each day features unique rituals and offerings:
- Engili Puvvu Bathukamma: On the first day, homage is paid to ancestors with rice and sesame seeds.
- Atukula Bathukamma: Flattened rice and jaggery are offered.
- Muddapuvvu Bathukamma: Made with mudda flowers; offerings include rice and dal.
- Nanabiyyam Bathukamma: Soaked rice and jaggery are presented.
- Atla Bathukamma: Dosa or roti is offered to the goddess.
- Aligina Bathukamma: No offerings, observed as a day of silence.
- Vepakayala Bathukamma: Naivedyam shaped like neem fruits.
- Venna Muddala Bathukamma: Offerings of sesame seeds, ghee, and butter.
- Saddula Bathukamma: A grand display of larger flower arrangements on the final day.
Bathukamma not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of Telangana but also serves as a celebration of femininity, nature, and community spirit. The festival’s unique blend of music, floral artistry, and ritual underscores the deep connection between people and the environment, making it a truly enchanting experience