Celebration features pachadi presentation, colouring contests, folk dances, devotional prayers

RAWANG: The Telugu community in Malaysia ushered in the New Year with vibrant Ugadi celebrations as families gathered at the Sri Veerakathy Vinayagar Temple here to observe the auspicious occasion.

Organised by the Telugu Association of Malaysia (TAM) Rawang branch, the celebration drew nearly 200 participants.

The festivities are part of a wider series of Ugadi events taking place across different states and branches nationwide, continuing through April.

The event featured a range of cultural and community-driven activities, including making of pachadi (a traditional chutney or relish), colouring contests for children, folk dance performances and devotional prayers.

TAM Rawang deputy chairman Keshava Harinath Apparaw said the Ugadi pachadi segment was not intended as a strict competition, but rather as a platform to encourage participation from the community.

Six groups comprising teenagers and adults took part in pachadi-making.

He said the key highlight of the celebration was the dhaatubhajana performance by children aged between seven and 11, who are active participants in weekly Telugu language classes.

“These classes not only focus on reading and writing the language, but also aim to instil cultural values and traditions.”

He said dhaatubhajana, a traditional devotional performance originating from Andhra Pradesh, combines rhythmic movement with spiritual singing.

“Commonly performed during auspicious occasions, such as Ugadi and Rama Navami, it reflects unity, devotion and cultural identity within the Malaysian Telugu community.”

Younger children, aged between six and 10, also entertained the audience with lively folk dance performances, showcasing the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage among the younger generation.

For long-time community member Suriakala Athinarayanan, 64, Ugadi remains deeply rooted in family traditions.

“I was born and raised in Rawang, and I have been celebrating Ugadi my whole life,” she said, adding that she continues to uphold the traditions practised by her mother.

Central to the celebration is Ugadi pachadi, a symbolic dish that combines sweet, sour, bitter and spicy flavours.

“Each taste represents different emotions in life: happiness, sadness, anger, patience, loss and gain.

It reminds us that life is a balance of all these experiences.”

Suriakala highlighted her long-standing involvement with TAM, spanning over three decades, during which she contributed to cultural programmes and education initiatives.

She recalled sitting for Telugu language examinations in her youth, describing the experience as a source of pride.

“At least I took the exams and wore the uniform.

It made me feel proud.

Having a certificate gave me a sense of achievement,” she said, noting that while she did not pursue higher education, the experience remained meaningful.

“I am happy to see the community growing.

It is important for the younger generation to continue our culture.

“Even though it can be challenging, we must carry it forward, and I am proud to see my children and grandchildren doing the same.”

Echoing the importance of tradition, TAM honorary general secretary Siva Soorianarayanan said Ugadi pachadi serves as a powerful reminder of life’s balance.

“Human life is made up of different emotions and experiences.

Consuming Ugadi pachadi on New Year’s Day symbolises the need to embrace both victories and challenges equally.”

He added that while roles have evolved over generations, the responsibility of preserving culture now lies with the present generation.

“What we learned from our parents and grandparents, we now pass on to our children.

Ugadi remains a day that emotions run high as we reflect on life and set goals for the year ahead.”

He also said Ugadi celebrations are becoming increasingly visible within the community, with younger generations actively participating in cultural performances and programmes.

“The younger generation shows strong enthusiasm, especially in community and temple events.

“TAM plays a crucial role in nurturing language, culture and traditions, ensuring they are carried forward.”

 The Sun Malaysia