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Telangana Celebrates Praja Palana Dinotsavam
Praja Palana Dinotsavam Celebrated Across Telangana
On September 17, Telangana celebrated Praja Palana Dinotsavam, also known as Telangana People’s Governance Day. This event commemorates the anniversary of the Hyderabad State’s integration into the Indian Union in 1951 and honors the Telangana Rebellion, a people’s movement against the Zamindari system under the Nizam’s rule. The day is a rebranded version of Telangana Liberation Day, a title often associated with Hyderabad’s annexation.
Events in Hyderabad and Across Districts
The celebrations were led by Telangana’s Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, who spearheaded the main event held at the Public Gardens in Hyderabad. Other districts in Telangana also marked the occasion, with events led by top officials, including district collectors. The government’s intention behind this new observance of Praja Palana Dinotsavam is to inspire the people of Telangana by reflecting on their state’s unique history and struggle.
Tribute to Telangana MartyrsOne of the highlights of the day was Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s visit to Gun Park, where he paid respects to the martyrs of the Telangana Rebellion. This rebellion, driven by the desire to end the oppressive Zamindari system under the Nizam’s regime, is seen as a significant part of the state’s historical narrative. After honoring the martyrs, Revanth Reddy proceeded to the Public Gardens to continue with the festivities.
Flag Hoisting and Telangana Police March Past
At the Public Gardens, the Chief Minister hoisted the national flag in front of a crowd of attendees. The event also featured a ceremonial march past led by the Telangana Police Corps. During his speech, Revanth Reddy reiterated the importance of observing Praja Palana Dinotsavam as a way to inspire the people of Telangana, highlighting the spirit of the Telangana Armed Rebellion.
Telangana’s Symbolic Identity
Revanth Reddy reflected on how the map of Telangana resembles a clenched fist, symbolizing the people’s ongoing struggle for identity, governance, and justice. This imagery evokes the tenacity and resilience that defined the formation of the Telangana state. The Chief Minister also reminisced about the cultural milestones that have shaped Telangana’s identity, including the recognition of the state anthem, ‘Jaya Jayahe Telangana,’ and the statue of Telangana Thalli, the symbolic mother figure of the state.
Cultural Identity and State Recognition
The event was used as an opportunity to celebrate Telangana’s unique cultural identity. Revanth Reddy highlighted several steps his government has taken to strengthen this identity, including instituting state awards named after the state’s beloved singer Gaddar, who represented the spirit of Telangana through his music. This gesture is aimed at giving the people of Telangana a renewed sense of pride in their heritage.
Rebranding the Day: From Liberation to Governance
Praja Palana Dinotsavam is a rebranded version of National Integration Day, which was observed by the previous BRS-led state government. National Integration Day focused on the merger of Hyderabad with India. However, this new celebration shifts the emphasis towards good governance and the people’s participation in shaping Telangana’s future.
The Telangana Congress government, under Revanth Reddy, seeks to move away from the divisive narrative of Hyderabad’s annexation and the violence associated with that period. Instead, they are focusing on the Telangana Rebellion and the fight against the Zamindari system, which oppressed the local population during the Nizam’s rule.
The BJP’s Perspective on Telangana Liberation Day
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on the other hand, refers to September 17 as Telangana Liberation Day. They view it as a day marking the state’s liberation from princely rule, often highlighting the annexation of Hyderabad as a moment of victory over feudal oppression. However, critics argue that this simplifies the complex historical events surrounding the state’s integration into India.
A Shift Towards Good Governance
By observing Praja Palana Dinotsavam, Revanth Reddy and his government aim to shift the focus from violence and historical grievances to governance and people-centric development. The Telangana Rebellion, which was essentially a people’s movement, is at the core of this new observance. The day serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by the people of Telangana and emphasizes their continued role in shaping the governance of their state.
Honoring the Telangana Rebellion
At the heart of the Praja Palana Dinotsavam is the celebration of the Telangana Rebellion. This movement fought to dismantle the feudal Zamindari system under the Nizam’s rule, which was characterized by extreme economic disparity and social injustice. The rebellion paved the way for the eventual integration of Hyderabad into India and contributed to the formation of a separate Telangana state in 2014.
Conclusion
Praja Palana Dinotsavam marks a significant shift in how Telangana commemorates its history. By focusing on the spirit of governance, the people’s rebellion, and the cultural identity of Telangana, the state government under Revanth Reddy is promoting a narrative of pride and progress. The day serves as a reminder of the people’s role in shaping Telangana’s present and future.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and official statements. The content reflects historical events and current political contexts as understood by various groups. Interpretations may differ, and readers are encouraged to seek additional perspectives.
