Hyderabad comes alive to Sankranti festivities
Hyderabad: The spirit of Sankranti, the harvest festival that ushers in joy and togetherness, has caught up with the city. Children can be seen on terraces merrily flying kites of various hues, while markets are swarmed with people, especially those shopping for rangoli, gulal, kites, and sweets. Families have already started stocking up on murukku, garelu, and ariselu.
Adding to the festive vibes, the state government has announced a week-long Sankranti vacation for educational institutions from January 11. Junior colleges will reopen on January 17 and schools a day later. The excitement of students is palpable.
“I’m so excited about the holidays. We’re going to my grandmother’s village. It’s a completely different life out there. The entire neighborhood comes together for muggus (rangoli) decorations, cooking festive food and flying kites,” said Harshini Reddy, a seventh grader.
Adding to the festivities, ‘Gandhi Shilp Bazaar National — Sankranti Sambaralu’ is being hosted at the Madhapur Shilparamam from January 8 to 17. A feature of the celebration will be entertainment coming in the form of Gangireddulu, Haridasulu, Budabukkalu, and Jangamadevarulu from January 13 to 15. These will bring alive the rich heritage of rural celebrations. Shilparamam will also organise a special “Bhogi Palla Utsavam” for children.
As per its annual tradition, the Telangana Tourism Department will organise its popular kite festival at the parade ground from January 13 to 15.
Sankranti is all about traditions and students are thrilled to be a part of it.
Kavya Sree, a ninth grader, said, “I love wearing traditional clothes and creating colorful rangolis with my cousins.”
The best part of the festival is undoubtedly the food, especially the ‘Pindi vantalu’.
“I can’t wait to help my mom and grandma make murukulu and ariselu,” said Ruchitha.
“I and my friends are getting ready with new kites and rolls of thread. I am keen to see whose kite flies the highest,” said Deekshith B, a sixth-grader.
Meanwhile, MGBS metro station has come up with a festive touch. Decked up to resemble a village, the station features small huts, cows, and colorful kites, giving commuters a feel of rural ambiance.
Schools and colleges are also joining in the celebrations by organising fun competitions by way of kite-making contests, rangoli designs, and cooking events.