Telangana Bathukamma 9 Days Names Telugu States Festival
Published September 24, 2022 · Last updated
Bathukamma is one of the most vibrant and cherished festivals of Telangana, celebrated by women across the Telugu states with flowers, prayers, and traditional offerings. This nine-day festival, also known as “Gajjelu Bathukamma” in some regions, marks the arrival of autumn and honors the goddess Durga through daily ritualistic offerings. If you are planning to participate in or learn more about this beautiful festival, this guide will help you understand each day’s significance, the offerings involved, and the proper way to celebrate.
What is Bathukamma Festival?
Bathukamma is a traditional festival unique to Telangana and parts of Andhra Pradesh, primarily observed by women. The word “Bathukamma” literally means “mother that has come,” referring to the goddess Durga. The festival spans nine days, beginning on Mahalaya Amavasya (the new moon day in the month of Aswayuja) and concluding on Ashvayuja Ashtami (the eighth day of the waxing moon). Each day of the festival has a specific name and is associated with a particular type of floral arrangement and food offering.
Unlike many festivals that focus on grand rituals in temples, Bathukamma is primarily a home-based celebration. Women prepare special flower arrangements and make traditional food offerings to the goddess, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and family well-being. The festival reflects the deep connection between nature, agriculture, and spirituality in Telangana culture.
The Nine Days of Bathukamma: Names and Significance
Each of the nine days of Bathukamma has a unique name and is celebrated with specific offerings and rituals. Let us understand each day in detail:
Day 1: Angilipuvu Bathukamma (Mahalaya Amavasya)
The festival begins on Mahalaya Amavasya, also known as Petramasa in Telangana. On this day, women prepare the first Bathukamma using flowers and create an offering called Angilipuvu. The traditional offering for this day is made from sesame seeds, rice flour, and nuts mixed together. This mixture is offered to the goddess with prayers for a blessed nine-day festival ahead.
Day 2: Atukula Bathukamma (Ashvayuja Suddha Padyami)
Celebrated on the first day of the waxing moon, this day involves preparing an offering with sappidi pappu (a rice and lentil mixture), jaggery, and atuku (a flattened rice preparation). The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet and nourishing offering that symbolizes prosperity and abundance.
Day 3: Muddapappu Bathukamma
On the third day, women prepare an offering made with muddapappu (a special lentil preparation), milk, and jaggery. This creamy and sweet offering is believed to please the goddess and bring harmony to the household.
Day 4: Nane Biyyam Bathukamma
This day’s offering consists of soaked rice mixed with milk and jaggery, creating a soft and easily digestible preparation. The use of soaked rice symbolizes the beginning of the harvest season and gratitude for the earth’s bounty.
Day 5: Atla Bathukamma
On the fifth day, women prepare atlu or dosha (a traditional crepe-like dish) as the offering. This dish is often made with rice flour and is served as a savory or sweet preparation depending on family tradition.
Day 6: Aligina Bathukamma (Ashvayuja Panchami)
Interestingly, the sixth day of Bathukamma is unique because no offering is made on this day. Instead, women celebrate the day by arranging flowers and gathering together to sing traditional Bathukamma songs and dances. This day provides a break in the offering cycle while maintaining the festive spirit.
Day 7: Vepakayala Bathukamma
On the seventh day, women prepare an offering by frying rice flour and molding it into neem fruits (vepakayala), which are then offered to the goddess. The use of neem, a medicinal plant, signifies the purification and health-giving aspects of the festival.
Day 8: Vennamuddala Bathukamma
The eighth day’s offering is made by mixing sesame seeds with butter or ghee and jaggery. This rich and aromatic offering symbolizes prosperity and the sweetness of life.
Day 9: Saddula Bathukamma (Ashvayuja Ashtami / Durgashtami)
The festival concludes on Ashvayuja Ashtami, coinciding with Durgashtami, a significant day in the Hindu calendar. On this final day, women prepare five types of offerings: perugannam (a sweet rice preparation), tamarind pulihora (tamarind rice), cobbarannam (turmeric rice), sesame seeds, and other traditional items. These five offerings represent different aspects of gratitude and culminate the nine-day celebration.
Traditional Customs and Rituals
Beyond the daily offerings, Bathukamma celebrations involve several important customs. Women typically arrange flowers in spiral or circular patterns, creating beautiful and intricate designs. The most common flowers used include marigold, jasmine, and chrysanthemum. In the evening, women gather to sing Bathukamma songs, which are traditional folk songs passed down through generations. The songs narrate stories of the goddess, agricultural cycles, and the celebration of womanhood.
The festival also includes a tradition of exchanging flowers and sweets among friends, family, and neighbors. This exchange reinforces community bonds and spreads joy throughout the locality.
How to Prepare for Bathukamma
To celebrate Bathukamma properly, you should gather the required flowers at least a week before the festival begins. Plan your offerings in advance so that you have all the necessary ingredients for each day. Many families prepare a schedule or checklist to ensure they don’t miss any day. If you are new to the festival, consider learning the traditional songs and dances beforehand, as these form an integral part of the celebration.
You may also want to explore related festivals like Durga Puja in other regions to understand the broader significance of goddess worship during this season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can men participate in Bathukamma celebrations?
While Bathukamma is traditionally a women-centric festival, men can support the celebrations by helping with preparations and participating in the cultural songs and dances. The festival celebrates feminine energy, but family involvement enhances the experience.
What if I miss one day of offerings?
If you miss any day due to unforeseen circumstances, you can perform the offering on the next available day or complete all nine days as soon as possible. The intention and devotion matter more than strict adherence to dates. Many families extend celebrations if needed.
Are there specific flowers that must be used for Bathukamma?
While marigold, jasmine, and chrysanthemum are most commonly used, you can use any fresh, fragrant flowers available in your region. The key is to create a beautiful and respectful arrangement. Local flowers are often preferred as they are readily available and support local agriculture.
How do I learn the traditional Bathukamma songs?
You can learn traditional Bathukamma songs from older family members, community centers, or online resources dedicated to Telugu culture. Many YouTube channels and cultural organizations provide tutorials for these traditional folk songs.
What should I do with the offerings after the ritual?
After offering the prepared items to the goddess, they are typically distributed as prasadam (blessed food) among family members and neighbors. This practice embodies the spirit of sharing and community welfare.
Is there a specific time to perform Bathukamma rituals?
The rituals are traditionally performed in the evening, though the exact timing can vary based on family customs and regional practices. Please verify with local temple authorities or family elders for the most appropriate timing in your area.
Conclusion
Bathukamma is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of nature, community, and feminine divine power. The nine-day celebration, with its unique daily offerings and rituals, connects devotees to ancient traditions while allowing space for personal and family interpretations. Whether you are a long-time celebrant or discovering this beautiful festival for the first time, participating in Bathukamma brings joy, spiritual fulfillment, and a deeper connection to Telugu culture and Hindu traditions. This year, as you celebrate Bathukamma, remember that your devotion and love matter more than perfection in ritual—celebrate with your heart, and the goddess will surely bless your home and family.
