Disrespecting and Distorting Telangana Talli Will Be a Criminal Offence: CM Revanth
Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy issued a stern warning against disrespecting Telangana Talli or attempting to alter its design, stressing that any such actions would attract heavy legal consequences. He described the statue as a tribute to Telangana’s unique culture and traditions and a representation of its people’s resilience and aspirations.
He was speaking after unveiling the state government's official Telangana Talli statue inside the Secretariat premises. This marks a significant milestone in Telangana's cultural and political journey.
The ceremony, attended by thousands of people, including members of women's self-help groups (SHGs), was a vibrant celebration of the state’s identity and heritage.
The unveiling was celebrated with cultural performances, a glittering drone show and fireworks amid an air of festivity, reflecting the deep pride and significance associated with the statue.
Revanth Reddy declared that December 9 would hereafter be celebrated as ‘Telangana Talli Avirbhava Dinotsavam’, commemorating the announcement of the Telangana state formation process on this very day in 2009 by the then Union home minister P. Chidambaram during the Congress-led UPA regime at the Centre.
The Chief Minister said, "An embodiment of our culture and traditions, Telangana Talli represents self-respect, history and the spirit of sacrifice that led to the creation of this state."
Declaring the day as a "festival of Telangana pride," he said, "These celebrations will remind us of our journey from crisis to welfare, from corruption to development and from destruction to the state’s reconstruction. This day will forever symbolise the commitment to preserving our identity and ensuring the well-being of all Telangana people."
Reddy said that his government has declared the iconic song ‘Jaya Jaya He Telangana’, which inspired many during the statehood movement, as the official state song. Prominent poet Andesri, credited with penning the song, was felicitated during the event, with the Chief Minister calling it a memory he would cherish for a lifetime. He also reminded the people his government's decision on vehicle registration codes, reverting to TG in place of TS, aligning with the statehood activists' aspirations.
The Chief Minister criticised the BRS government for not standardising the image of Telangana Talli. “Today, the people’s government (Congress) has officially showcased the image of Telangana Talli, fulfilling the aspirations of millions,” he said.
He announced a special recognition package for poets and artists, who contributed to the statehood movement. A 300-square-yard house plot, cash reward of Rs 1 crore, and a felicitation letter will be awarded to nine celebrated poets and artists, including Guda Anjaiah, Gaddar, Bandi Yadagiri and Andesri, among others.
“We honour their sacrifices, which brought our cultural and political aspirations to life,” he stated.
In a related development, the state government on Monday issued orders (GO Ms. No. 1946) criminalising any form of disrespect, insult or harm to the Telangana Talli statue. The order categorises actions such as setting the statue on fire, mocking it publicly, or distorting its image in any medium, including social media, as punishable offences.
The orders stated that Telangana Talli is a symbol of the self-respect and identity of the people of Telangana.
“Any distortion or misrepresentation of the approved design and image of Telangana Talli is strictly prohibited and will be treated as a crime,” the orders said.
The government formally approved the design of the Telangana Talli statue, describing it as an embodiment of the pride, culture, and history of the state. The design portrays Telangana Talli as a traditional, middle-aged woman with calm and serene features, epitomizing the strength and dignity of Telangana heritage.
Key elements of the statue include: The right hand is extended in a gesture of assurance and prosperity, while the left hand is carrying traditional crops of Telangana, including paddy, pearl millet, foxtail millet, and maize. The statue stands on a pedestal of closed fists, representing the determination, sacrifices and struggle of the state’s youth and people during the statehood movement.
The state government highlighted the significance of Telangana Talli as a unifying symbol and a testament to the state’s journey of self-determination.
“This design reflects the essence of Telangana’s culture and history while paying homage to the sacrifices made for statehood,” the notification reads.
Revanth unveils Telangana Talli statue in Secretariat
Nine eminent poets and artists to be honoured