Celebrating Sankranti: A Time for Tradition and Unity in Telugu States
The two Telugu-speaking states, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, have come alive with the vibrant and joyous celebrations of Sankranti, one of the most significant festivals in the region. Known for its cultural richness, Sankranti is a time for family gatherings, traditional rituals, and festive spirit. The occasion of Bhogi, the first day of Sankranti, was marked by the lighting of bonfires early in the morning, as people across the region bid farewell to the old year and welcomed the new with hopes for prosperity and well-being.
Mohan Babu’s Celebration of Tradition and Culture
Among the prominent figures participating in the festivities, renowned actor and philanthropist Mohan Babu, along with his family, took part in the Bhogi celebrations at Mohan Babu University in Tirupati. His presence at the event was not just a reflection of his cultural roots but also an opportunity for him to extend warm Sankranti greetings to people across the Telugu-speaking states.
During the celebrations, Mohan Babu stressed the significance of staying connected to one’s Indian heritage, particularly highlighting the need for younger generations to appreciate and uphold age-old customs. He urged people to resist the overpowering influence of Western culture and stay grounded in their traditions, especially during festive times like Sankranti.
A Call for Positive Change and Unity
Mohan Babu’s message was not just about preserving tradition but also about embracing a hopeful outlook for the future. “May everyone’s hardships be removed, and may happiness and prosperity prevail,” he wished for the people of the Telugu states, urging them to leave behind past struggles and focus on the possibilities that the future holds.
In a heartfelt prayer, the actor expressed his hopes for a prosperous year free from natural calamities such as droughts and adversities. He appealed to the divine for blessings that would ensure peace, growth, and abundance for the region.
Encouraging Safety in Traditional Practices
A key part of Sankranti celebrations in the Telugu states is the participation in traditional sports and events, with Jallikattu being one of the most prominent. This ancient bull-taming sport, especially popular in Tamil Nadu but celebrated in various forms across South India, also sees participation from youth in the Telugu states. Recognizing the risks associated with such practices, Mohan Babu took the opportunity to advise the youth involved in Jallikattu to take necessary precautions and prioritize their safety. His words echoed a deep concern for well-being, urging the participants to enjoy the festivities responsibly.
A Time for Togetherness and Renewal
Sankranti is not just a festival but a reminder of the importance of community, tradition, and reflection. The lighting of bonfires, the sharing of sweets like tilgul, and the flying of kites symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time for renewal, for letting go of the past, and for embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.
As the people of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana come together to celebrate Sankranti, the words of Mohan Babu resonate as a reminder of the value of culture, family, and community. His call for unity, respect for elders, and a positive approach to the future will surely inspire many to reflect on the true essence of this joyous festival.
This Sankranti, as the region basks in the warmth of bonfires and the light of festive celebrations, there is a renewed sense of hope and a collective aspiration for a prosperous and harmonious year ahead.
