Hyderabad: As many residents skip travel this Ugadi, Hyderabad is turning inward, recreating the warmth of home through vibrant community events and revived traditions across the city ahead of the Telugu New Year, Sri Parabhava Nama Samvatsaram, on Thursday.With many choosing to stay back, cultural events and community celebrations are witnessing a noticeable rise. From apartment complexes to auditoriums, organisers are curating programmes to recreate the festive spirit for those unable to travel. Music performances, skits, traditional fashion walks and comedy acts are forming the core of these celebrations.Event organiser Podugu Vasanth Krishna said their private ‘Ugadi Festival’ in Banjara Hills is aimed at bringing festive cheer to those away from home. “We’ve designed it as a mix of music, ramp walks, skits and comedy so people can experience everything in one place. Many stay away from families during festivals, so we wanted to recreate that feeling here,” he said.Launched in 2018, the initiative has seen a steady response. “The idea is to connect people to our culture, especially those celebrating away from their hometowns,” he added.The festival, which marks the Hindu lunar New Year, is traditionally celebrated with Ugadi Pachadi — a mix of six tastes symbolising life’s varied experiences — shared among family and friends.Beyond organised events, homes across the city, including bachelor households, are also embracing tradition. From preparing Ugadi Pachadi to decorating entrances with mango leaves, many are planning intimate gatherings with friends and relatives.Markets, too, have been buzzing, with strong demand for neem flowers, raw mangoes and jaggery. “There is huge demand for pooja items and festive essentials this year. People want to celebrate properly,” said a vendor in Ameerpet.Residents say these efforts help preserve a sense of belonging amid urban routines. “Even if we’re not going home, celebrating here with others makes it feel like home,” said V Hema Latha, a resident of Dr A.S. Rao Nagar.Blending cultural events with homegrown traditions, Ugadi in Hyderabad this year is turning the city itself into a shared home for celebration.
