EKALAVYA MALLEPALL I | Hyderabad 

Telangana, renowned for its cultural confluence and spirit of communal harmony, is witnessing a growing chorus demanding the official recognition of Muharram—locally known as Peerla Panduga—as a state festival. Unlike conventional observances, Peerla Panduga in Telangana stands out as a deeply inclusive tradition that brings together people across religious and caste lines, embodying the very essence of the state's pluralistic identity and shared heritage.

At a statewide meeting held on Tuesday at the Somajiguda Press Club in Hyderabad, community leaders, cultural activists, and representatives from various districts came together to urge the state government to formally declare Muharram a state festival. The event saw enthusiastic participation from leaders and organizers who highlighted the distinct character of Telangana’s Muharram.

MLC Prof. Kodandaram, voicing full support for the movement, said, “Muharram in Telangana is not just a religious observance—it is a celebration of love, sacrifice, and harmony. It is embraced by all communities. I support the demand to recognize it as a state festival and will extend all help at every level to ensure it happens.”

MD Khalil, general secretary of the Telangana Federation of Trade Unions (TFTU), emphasized the inclusive nature of the festival. “In almost every village across the state—whether it’s Gouds, SCs, STs, or BCs—people participate in Peerla Panduga. This is a celebration of togetherness and it deserves recognition alongside Bathukamma and Bonalu,” he said. Khalil also announced a statewide awareness campaign beginning June 27 to build public support.

Obedulla Kothwal, Chairman of the Telangana State Minority Finance Corporation, expressed concern over the diminishing visibility of Peerla Kottams—traditional spaces associated with the festival. “Many Peerla Kottams (Alam shrines) have been converted into temples or neglected. This festival has played a key role in keeping our villages united. The absence of religious divisions in many parts of Telangana is due in part to the spirit of this event,” he remarked.

Celebrated across Mahabubnagar, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Nalgonda, Medak, and Adilabad, Peerla Panduga features processions where Alams (replicas of sacred tombs) are carried by people of all faiths. In many villages, Hindu families host Peerlu in honor of Hazrat Imam Hussain, reflecting the syncretic nature of Telangana’s culture.

peakers recalled that despite repeated appeals during the previous TRS government, the demand was not fulfilled. With the Congress now in power, the committee urged Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to immediately issue a Government Order (GO) recognizing Muharram as a state festival. They warned of statewide protests if the demand is ignored before the upcoming observance.