Unity in Cultural Celebrations, a Hope for Public Welfare Collaboration
Hyderabad October 13, 2024 :- In a rare display of unity, political leaders from various parties set aside their differences to attend the annual ‘Alai Balai’ program in Hyderabad. Hosted by Bandaru Dattatreya, currently serving as the Governor of Haryana, the event traditionally takes place after Dussehra and fosters camaraderie among leaders from all political affiliations.
The event, held at the Exhibition Grounds, featured cultural programs that showcased the rich heritage of Telangana. Attendees were treated to a grand feast with nearly 60 different dishes, including mutton and chicken biryani, fish curry, and other regional delicacies, reflecting the state’s culinary diversity.
Prominent figures such as former Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu, Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Uttarakhand Governor Gurmit Singh, Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade, and Meghalaya Governor Vijayashankar were present at the occasion. Joining them were state minister Ponnam Prabhakar, BJP MPs K. Laxman, Eatala Rajender, and Vishweshwar Reddy, along with Congress leaders K. Kesava Rao, V. Hanumantha Rao, MLC M. Kodandaram, and BR’s leader T. Srinivas Yadav, among others.
In a significant gesture, leaders from almost every political party came together to celebrate the event, enjoying the program’s activities and festivities. Many observers noted that if these leaders, who managed to set aside their political differences for this cultural gathering, could unite in the same way on public issues, the state and the nation could see much-needed progress. Such cooperation would not only ensure the development of the state but also improve the lives of the people. It is time for political leaders to give thought to working together on public welfare issues.
The highlight of the gathering was a feast featuring nearly 60 varieties of dishes, including traditional delicacies such as mutton and chicken biryani and fish curry. Bandaru Dattatreya, who has been hosting the ‘Alai Balai’ event in Hyderabad for the past 19 years, was lauded by Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for his consistent efforts in organizing the program since 2005.
Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd.), Governor of Uttarakhand, expressed his thoughts about the event in a tweet: “Attended the Alai Balai in Hyderabad today, a festival that beautifully highlights the spirit of unity in diversity. This celebration teaches us that despite our cultural, political, or social differences, we are all connected by shared values and traditions, much like the festival of Dussehra. Coming together in harmony strengthens us as a community.”
During the Alai Balai festival, the meanings of ‘Alai’ as waves and ‘Balai’ as blessings were evident throughout the event. The waves symbolized the coming together of people from all walks of life, while the blessings were a reminder of the unity fostered through this gathering. Just as Dussehra signifies the triumph of good over evil, Alai Balai encourages people to overcome their differences and embrace peace and harmony.
Alai Balai is more than just a celebration—it is a platform that supports local artisans, folk traditions, and crafts, which are the heart of Telangana’s cultural identity. As the state continues to celebrate Dussehra and other festivals, it is crucial to preserve and promote these traditions for future generations. Governor Gurmit Singh also expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the event’s organizers for fostering unity and celebrating Telangana’s vibrant heritage.
