Former MP Seetaram Naik makes an appeal to declare Teej a State festival

Former MP from Mahabubabad Azmeera Seetaram Naik has made a strong pitch for declaring the age-old Teej festival of Lambadi-Banjara community an official festival.

“The nine-day Teej festival is celebrated during the month of Shravan in Lambadi tandas. It denotes greenery, prosperity and wealth. It is living proof that Banjaras are worshippers of nature,” said Mr.Naik, in a statement.

For the Lambadi-Banjara community, protecting their roots and traditions is not merely preserving customs; Teej is the foundation of their identity as worshippers of nature and a symbol of unity, he added. “It reflects our identity, pride, the lifestyle of our ancestors, devotion and respect for nature and the bonds of family. Passing these traditions to future generations, preserving cultural heritage, instilling devotion and pride among youth is the responsibility of all of us.”

However, due to lack of awareness or the influence of modern trends, Teej seems to be losing importance in some tandas, he pointed out and said, “Therefore, we earnestly appeal to continue this festival without interruption.”