Introduction
The Prime Minister of India recently extended greetings to the people of Telangana on their Statehood Day observed on June 2nd. The northwestern part of Andhra Pradesh was partitioned in 2014, forging the 29th state of India, Telangana, with Hyderabad as its capital city. This article delves into the history and key highlights of this significant region.
Creation of Telangana
Born on 2nd June 2014, Telangana was originally a part of Andhra Pradesh. The division was a result of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, which bifurcated the southern state into two – Andhra Pradesh (residuary) and a separate new entity known as Telangana.
The Journey from Madras to Andhra Pradesh
Delving into history, the original journey started with the Andhra State Act of 1953, which formed the first linguistic state in India. Known as the state of Andhra, it comprised the Telugu-speaking regions carved out from the State of Madras, now known as Tamil Nadu.
This was followed by the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, which merged the Telugu-speaking areas of the Hyderabad state with the Andhra state. The merging resulted in the enlarged state of Andhra Pradesh, marking an important point in the history of Southern India’s political landscape.
Icons Reflecting Telangana’s Heritage
Telangana is not only distinct in terms of its political entity but also through its unique icons, encapsulating the rich culture and tradition of the State.
The four main symbols of Telangana include the State Bird – Palapitta (Indian Roller or Blue Jay), the State Animal- Jinka (Deer), the State Tree – Jammi Chettu (Prosopis Cineraria), and the State Flower – Tangedu (Tanner’s Cassia). These emblems serve as a reflection of the local ethos and are deeply associated with regional festivals and customs.
Telangana’s Festive Culture
Three of these icons – the Tangedu flowers, the Palapitta bird, and the Jammi Chettu tree, are integral to the popular festivals of Bathukamma and Dasara. Bathukamma, celebrated by the women of Telangana, involves worshipping the ‘Goddess of Life’ with flowers, including Tangedu. The Dasara festival uses the leaves of the Jammi Chettu tree for rituals.
Jinka: Symbolising the People of Telangana
Jinka, the state animal, is a deer known for its sensitivity and innocence, mirroring the mindset of the people of Telangana. Its selection as the State Animal emphasizes the harmony that exists between the region’s wildlife and its inhabitants.
Telangana is a testament to the rich linguistic, cultural, and natural diversity of India. The region’s journey to statehood is a poignant reminder of the country’s evolving political fabric, deeply intertwined with its vibrant socio-cultural milieu.
