Vijaya Dasami, also widely known as Dussehra, is one of the most vibrant and eagerly awaited festivals in the state of Telangana. It marks the end of the nine-day festival called Bathukamma and celebrates the triumph of good over evil. Across cities, towns, and villages, the atmosphere fills up with devotion, color, and happiness as families come together to pray, celebrate, and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
The Special Tradition of Bathukamma and Dussehra
In Telangana, Vijaya Dasami holds a unique cultural identity because it arrives right at the conclusion of Bathukamma—the floral festival unique to the region. Women create beautiful, cone-shaped arrangements of colorful seasonal flowers, worship them, and finally immerse them in local water bodies. Bathukamma represents nature, water, and the divine feminine energy of Goddess Gauri. Following this nine-day floral celebration, Dussehra day arrives with immense enthusiasm, symbolizing the final victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
The Significance of Shami Puja and Ayudha Puja
On the auspicious day of Vijaya Dasami, people in Telangana follow age-old, meaningful traditions. Ayudha Puja is performed where families clean and worship their tools, books, vehicles, and instruments, showing gratitude for their livelihood and daily work. Another vital ritual is Shami Puja (also known as Banni Puja or worship of the Jammi chettu). People gather near the Shami tree to offer prayers, exchange its leaves as a symbol of gold, and wish each other peace, wealth, and success.
The Joy of Exchange: Sharing the “Golden” Leaves
One of the most heartwarming parts of Dussehra in Telangana is the tradition of exchanging Jammi leaves. After offering prayers at the Jammi tree, family members, friends, and neighbors lovingly greet each other by offering these green leaves, calling them sona (gold). Elders bless the youngsters with good health and a bright future, while youngsters touch the feet of elders to show respect. This beautiful custom spreads love, removes any old misunderstandings, and strengthens the feeling of unity in the community.
Feasting and Community Celebration
No Indian festival is complete without delicious food, and Telangana’s Dussehra features traditional delicacies. Families prepare special festive dishes like Ariselu, Bobbatlu, and various traditional items to share with relatives and neighbors. In the evening, people wear new clothes, greet their elders to seek their blessings, and participate in community gatherings. Through unity, colorful rituals, and shared joy, Vijaya Dasami in Telangana strengthens bonds of love and keeps rich cultural heritage alive for the younger generation.
Anand Gantela is a senior journalist with 30 years of experience across print, TV, and digital media. Currently serving as the Editor of Ink Post, his career spans key reporting and editorial roles at Prajasakti, Andhra Bhoomi, Maa TV, Mudra and Prime Post. He writes on regional news, current affairs, and socio-political developments.
