The New Statue of Telangana Thalli – Which is a personification of the cultural identity, self-respect, and aspirations of the people of Telangana has become the latest bone of contention in the politics of the Southern state of the country. The opposition BRS led by former CM K Chandra Shekhar Rao has opposed this new statute which was recently unveiled by the Revanth Reddy government of the state. BRS working President KT Rama Rao stated that the redesigned statue lacked several elements that reflected the ethos, culture, and glory of the State.

The concept of Telangana Thalli

The idea of Telangana Thalli originated during the Telangana statehood movement as a counterpart to the "Telugu Thalli" in united Andhra Pradesh. It was envisioned as a symbol to unite and inspire the people in their fight for statehood. Over time, the Telangana Thalli statue has undergone several transformations, influenced by various political groups involved in the Telangana statehood struggle.

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Distinguishing features of previous statue

The original Telangana Thalli statue, created in 2003 by artist B. Venkataramana, beautifully represented the cultural heritage of the state. Dressed in a pink silk saree, the statue showcased Telangana's world renowned Gadwal and Pochampalli silks. It held a Bathukamma pot, paying homage to the region's iconic festival, and included maize cobs to symbolize the state's agricultural prosperity. Additionally, the statue featured a crown, a gold waistband, and traditional toe rings, all of which highlighted Telangana's rich cultural traditions.

How is the new statute different?

The redesigned version features a green saree and omits the crown, pot, and jewelry. Moreover, it has an open palm, which is being claimed to resemble the symbol of the Congress party causing discontent among other political parties.

The statute was unveiled in the secretariat in Hyderabad on December 9 which also happens to be the birthday of Sonia Gandhi, former President of Congress party and its tallest leader.

There is more to it. Revanth Reddy government has also declared December 9 as Telangana Talli Avatarana Dinotsavam (the unveiling of the Telangana Talli statue) to be celebrated annually. Notably it was on December 9 in the year 2009, that the Congress-led UPA government had announced the initiation of the process to create Telangana state. The day obviously coincides with the birthday of Sonia Gandhi.

BJP which has been trying to finding a foothold in the Telangana politics too pointed fingers at the Congress government. Party’s General Secretary Tarun Chugh commented on X that “ As the Congress government in Telangana marks its first anniversary, here is a striking example of an attack on the state’s cultural identity.

The Revanth Reddy led Congress government has altered the depiction of Telangana Thalli, the revered Goddess of Telangana: Changed the saree color to green, removed the Bathukamma, removed the crown and jewellery, added Abhaya Hastam (symbolizing the Congress logo).