“We’re from the Gond community, a tribal group from Adilabad, Telangana. We’re proud to keep the Gussadi tradition alive. This dance is a big part of our heritage, passed down from our ancestors. It’s not just a dance; it’s who we are and where we come from.
We’re honored to perform at Charminar during the Bonalu festival, which happens around Ashada time. Bonalu is a big festival in Telangana, where we honor Goddess Mahakali. When we dance, we’re not just showing off our culture; we’re sharing it with everyone.
Our costumes are decorated with peacock feathers and bright colors, which connect us to nature and our beliefs. The jewelry and face paint we wear are part of our tribal customs, and each piece has a story. We travel to perform, not just to show off, but to keep our culture alive.
The Gussadi dance tells our story – our happy times, struggles, and strength. It helps us remember where we come from and ensures our heritage lives on. We’re committed to keeping this tradition going.
For us, the Gussadi tradition is a responsibility. We want to inspire the younger generation to embrace our culture and keep it alive. When we dance, we honor our ancestors and celebrate our heritage. We’re proud to be part of this tradition and will pass it down to our kids and grandkids.”