25-Foot Bathukamma Steals the Show at MATA’s Grand Dasara Celebrations in New Jersey

New Jersey: The Mana American Telugu Association (MATA) made history in New Jersey by hosting the largest-ever Bathukamma & Dasara Celebrations at Royal Albert’s Palace, New Jersey. A record-breaking crowd of over 3,000 attendees came together for a spectacular day filled with devotion, culture, and community pride.

The centerpiece of the festivities was the majestic 25-foot Bathukamma—the tallest ever – standing as a powerful emblem of unity, tradition, and devotion. The event also showcased Durga Pooja, Bommalakoluvu, cultural performances, vendor exhibitions, raffles, and New Jersey’s biggest Bathukamma competition, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Guests were enthralled by Yuti Harshavardhana (SaReGaMaPa S13 & Indian Idol 2 Fame) and Deepti Nag (Women’s Committee Chair, Singer & Anchor), who filled the hall with devotional fervor and festive spirit through their captivating performances.

In true Telugu tradition, the spirit of service and sharing shone as prasadam were served to all 3,000+ attendees. Families joyfully played Bathukamma in an auspicious and traditional way, filling the ballroom with vibrant colors, songs, and devotion. The celebration concluded with a majestic Nimajjanam procession, accompanied by Sannayi, Nadaswaram, and traditional Dappulu, echoing the cultural heartbeat of Telangana.

The celebrations were guided and blessed by MATA’s Advisory Council

• Srinivas Ganagoni, Founder & Advisory Council Member

• Pradeep Samala, Founder & Advisory Council Member
• Jitendar Reddy, Advisory Council Member

Leadership & Acknowledgments

The Executive Committee (EC) Team, Honorary Advisors, and Board of Directors (BOD) whose vision and dedication brought this historic celebration to life:

• Ramana Kiran Duddagi, President

• Praveen Guduru, Executive Vice President

• Vijay Bhaskar Kalal, General Secretary

• Shireesha Gundapuneni, Spiritual & Membership Director

• Suresh Kajana, Sports Director
• Sarasvathi Lakkasani, Health & Wellness Director
• Rammohan Chinnala, BOD

Honorary Advisors who supported and graced the occasion: Damu Gedala, Jaideep Reddy, Venkatesh Mutyala and Balaji Jilla

Special Thanks

President Ramana Kiran Duddagi and the Executive Committee extended heartfelt gratitude to:

• New Jersey RVPs – Venu Giri, Narendar Reddy Erranguri, Deepak Katta, and Purna Bedupudi for their strong leadership and teamwork.
• Bathukamma Core Team – Shireesha Gundapuneni, Venu Giri, Babuji Pendyala, Narender Reddy Eranaguri, Purna Bedhapudi, Deepak Katta, Krishna Siddhada, Arundathi Shakelli, Lakshmi Kantha Gajula, Gopi Vutukuri, Madhu Kunku, Padmini Dharmapuri, Siddharth Thamma, and Purushottam Animolu for their tireless efforts.

• Decorations – Heartfelt thanks to Girija Madasi Garu for the beautiful decorations and her unwavering support as always
• Bommalakoluvu Team – Suresh Kajana (Sports Director), Ranga Madisetty (SC), and team for presenting a traditional and divine display.
• Vendors – Sincere thanks to all vendors who showcased their products and services, adding richness, variety, and vibrancy to the event.

Sponsors & Participants

Deep gratitude to all sponsors including food sponsors, Bathukamma winners, Fashion Show winners, and the 25+ women who brought 1ft+ Bathukammas and received sarees as gifts. Special recognition to all the women who together brought 100+ Bathukammas, making this celebration the largest and most colorful in New Jersey’s history.

This landmark celebration stands as a shining testament to Telugu culture, demonstrating how festivals unite communities, preserve traditions, and inspire future generations. With devotion, music, and cultural pride filling the air, MATA’s Bathukamma & Dasara Celebrations 2025 will be remembered as a historic milestone for the Telugu community of New Jersey.