Bhogi Lights Up the State: Old Farewells, New Beginnings

People across Andhra Pradesh celebrated Bhogi , the auspicious beginning of the Sankranti festival, with devotion, traditional fervour, and cultural enthusiasm. From the early hours of Wednesday, the state was enveloped in a festive atmosphere as Bhogi bonfires illuminated streets and villages . Symbolising the discarding of old belongings and negative thoughts, people welcomed new beginnings and positivity through the traditional Bhogi rituals.

Spiritual Grandeur at Tirumala

The Tirumala Srivari Temple witnessed special spiritual splendour on the occasion of Bhogi. Under the supervision of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) , traditional Bhogi bonfires were organised in and around the temple premises. Devotees from various parts of the country thronged Tirumala to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara, expressing spiritual satisfaction and joy, according to TTD officials.

Festive Spirit in Villages

Across all districts of the state, residents lit Bhogi bonfires in front of their homes in the early morning hours. Neighbours gathered together, celebrating the festival in a joyous and communal atmosphere. With many city dwellers returning to their native villages, rural areas came alive with festivities. Colourful rangolis, gobbemmalu decorations, and cheerful gatherings of children and elders around the bonfires added to the vibrant rural charm.

Fading Haridasu Tradition Raises Concern

This year’s Bhogi celebrations also brought attention to the gradual decline of the Haridasu tradition . In Gangadevipalle village of Prakasam district, only about ten Haridasu families continue to preserve this age-old custom. Haridasu Mastan said that during Sankranti, they traditionally visit homes in ceremonial attire, singing devotional hymns to remind people of the festival’s significance. He expressed concern that although he has been following the tradition for the past 18 years, public support has declined over time. He urged the younger generation to recognise and preserve the cultural and spiritual value of this tradition.

Governor and Chief Minister Extend Greetings

Governor S. Abdul Nazeer conveyed Bhogi greetings to the people of the state, expressing hope that the harvest festival would bring new light, prosperity, and happiness into their lives. Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu , in his message on the social media platform ‘X’, said that the rangolis drawn at every doorstep and the glowing Bhogi bonfires should fill Telugu households with renewed brightness and positivity.

Meanwhile, YSRCP President and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy extended Bhogi, Sankranti, and Kanuma greetings to the people of Andhra Pradesh. He wished that the festival, which symbolises the burning away of evil and the welcoming of joy, would bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to everyone.