Bhogi Festival in Andhra Pradesh Becomes Political Battleground
Celebrations for the Bhogi festival across Andhra Pradesh took a distinctly political turn on Wednesday. Leaders from both the ruling NDA alliance and the opposition YSR Congress Party seized the occasion to rally their cadres and launch attacks on their rivals. The traditional bonfires, typically meant to mark the festival, transformed into platforms for political symbolism and messaging.
Symbolic Burning in Vijayawada Sparks Controversy
In Vijayawada, MP Kesineni Sivanath participated in Bhogi festivities where a notable symbolic act occurred. Passbooks bearing the photograph of former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy were thrown into the bonfire. These passbooks had been issued during the previous YSRCP government's tenure. Addressing the gathered supporters, Sivanath made strong allegations. He claimed that the state had been "used for personal gain" in the past. He promised that new passbooks for farmers would soon be distributed. These new documents, he said, would reflect transparency and a genuine commitment to agricultural welfare.
Opposition Response Goes Viral from Guntur
In a countermove, former minister Ambati Rambabu joined Bhogi celebrations in Guntur. There, he composed and danced to songs that sharply criticized the ruling TDP–Jana Sena–BJP alliance. His spirited and energetic performance quickly gained traction on social media platforms. The viral video drew widespread attention to the opposition's pointed messaging. It showcased how political rivals are using cultural events to communicate their critiques directly to the public.
Ruling Alliance Leaders Reiterate Governance Pledges
Meanwhile, several senior figures from the ruling alliance also marked the festival. Home Minister V Anitha and Deputy Speaker Raghu Ramakrishnam Raju were among those who joined Bhogi celebrations at various locations. They extended festive greetings to the people. More importantly, they used the opportunity to reiterate their political resolve. They emphasized their commitment to delivering stable governance. They also promised to complete key projects, including the development of Amaravati as the state capital. This messaging aimed to project an image of progress and reliability.
The Bhogi bonfires this year served a dual purpose. They honored traditional rituals while simultaneously becoming stages for political expression. The blending of festive customs with pointed political symbolism highlighted the intense rivalry shaping Andhra Pradesh's political landscape. As leaders from both sides engaged with the public during the celebrations, the lines between cultural observance and political campaigning appeared increasingly blurred.
