Telangana’s 2026 Bathukamma celebrations culminated in large public gatherings, floral displays and folk performances across the state, with Hyderabad’s Hussain Sagar waterfront becoming a major focal point for Saddula Bathukamma on October 18. Women and girls gathered around colourful tiered floral arrangements, sang traditional Bathukamma songs and took part in community celebrations that showcase Telangana’s cultural identity.

At Tank Bund, the state-level programme featured floral Bathukammas, a procession and performances by folk artists. Reports said around 700 artists presented 30 traditional art forms, while fireworks and a laser show added to the evening programme. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, ministers and other public figures attended the event, according to reports and official statements.

Bathukamma celebrations at Tank Bund

Hussain Sagar’s waterfront was filled with colourful floral arrangements and crowds as the festival reached its grand finale. Women carried Bathukammas decorated with seasonal flowers, gathered in circles, sang traditional songs and participated in folk performances. The celebrations reflected the festival’s strong links to women’s community life, nature and Telangana’s cultural heritage.

Coverage from other parts of Telangana also reported Saddula Bathukamma gatherings at temples, public grounds, streets and local community venues. In the erstwhile Adilabad region, women gathered in towns and rural areas, offered prayers, shared prasadam and immersed the floral arrangements in nearby water bodies.

What makes Bathukamma distinctive?

Bathukamma is Telangana’s celebrated floral festival, traditionally observed by women over nine days during the Navaratri season. Floral stacks are made using seasonal flowers such as tangedu, gunugu, marigold and chrysanthemum. Participants arrange the flowers in layered, circular forms, place the Bathukamma at the centre of a gathering and sing and dance around it.

The festival is associated with Goddess Gauri and expresses gratitude for nature’s abundance. It also brings families, neighbours and communities together, while its floral traditions form a distinctive part of Telangana’s cultural identity.

Bathukamma and the Dussehra season

Bathukamma takes place during the broader Navaratri and Dussehra period, but it has its own distinct customs and significance in Telangana. Saddula Bathukamma is the grand concluding celebration, usually held shortly before Vijayadashami. Families may then observe Dussehra traditions including worship, visiting temples and exchanging Jammi leaves in accordance with local customs.

Sources and further reading

This article summarises reported public celebrations and traditional practices. Details of individual local events may vary by district and community.