Golconda Lightens Up; I-Day Fete Bids Bye To Boring Celebrations

Telangana CM KCR reinvented the Independence day celebrations in the new state by  moving the celebrations to Golconda, and reflecting the history and heritage in the first national event held in Telangana today. Looking at the celebrations in Golconda, once can’t help but wonder how bland and boring was the celebration in Parade grounds, which was venue of the fete since 1956.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao today hoisted the national flag at the historic Golconda Fort to showcase the rich legacy of Telangana. He has in his speech highlighted the significance of the fort in Telangana’s history and culture. He described Independence Day celebrations at the fort as another historic event.

After paying tributes to martyrs at a memorial at Parade Ground in Secunderabad, KCR drove to Golconda and hoisted the tricolour at a colourful ceremony with the majestic fort in the backdrop.

The chief minister unfurled the national flag on a 62 feet tall pole from a makeshift platform close to the iconic Taramati mosque amid rendition of the national anthem at 9:30 AM.

Before unfurling the tricolour, Rao was presented a guard of honour by a police contingent. After hoisting the flag, he addressed the gathering. Due to lack of space in the fort ruins, the traditional parade and demonstration by tableaux were omitted.

The impressive celebrations highlighted the rich culture of Telangana with the drummers and other artists performing on the ramparts.

KCR, as the chief minister is popularly known, said the people of Telangana were happy to celebrate the first Independence Day in their own state at Golconda Fort, which is a symbol of Telangana’s rich heritage.

From the fort’s construction by Kaktiyas to the rule of the Qutub Shahi kings, the chief minister referred to several historical developments to underline the role played by the fort in Telangana’s history and culture.

He pointed out that the fort got global recognition with its famous Koh-i-Noor diamond and was a global gateway for diamond traders including diamond traders from Rome, England and Turkey.

The ancient fort on the fringes of the city was the capital of the Qutub Shahi kingdom from 1518 to 1687. The fort was built by the Kaktiyas of Warangal during 10th century as a mud fort and was later fortified by the Qutub Shahi kings.

On the Occasion, KCR awarded the sportspersons who have added to Telanagans’ success in recent sports events at CWG and also Poorna and Anand, who conquered Mt Everest.

There has been overwhelming response from the crowds for the ceremony, unlike in previous years, with Telangana State and Golconda defining this year’s celebrations. Many thronged to see the celebrations but entry was limited to few thousands as the space is not adequate this year. The Government plans to expand the scope from next year and is exploring opportunities for the same, said Officials. Golconda is a protected heritage site and the Government is exploring options that won’t damage it in anyway.