Every year, two days after Diwali, parts of Hyderabad erupt in a spectacle of colour, music and pageantry as the Yadava community celebrates Sadar (also called Dunnapothula Panduga) — a buffalo carnival that honours cattle, community identity and rural traditions inside the urban sprawl. In 2025 the festival again drew large crowds to traditional hubs such as the Narayanguda YMCA (the city’s “Pedha Sadar”), Ameerpet, Khairatabad and Saidabad, underlining the event’s continuing cultural relevance.
What is Sadar (Dunnapothula Panduga)?
Sadar is a decades-old Yadava community celebration that dates back to the mid-20th century and traditionally takes place during the Diwali period — typically on the second day after Diwali. The event mixes ritual (a form of Govardhan or “Go Puja”), music (teen maar, community bands), dance and the central spectacle: buffaloes and bulls dressed in garlands, painted horns, bells and ornamental headgear and paraded through streets. The largest and most historic gathering is the Narayanguda YMCA Sadar, which began in 1946 and remains the focal point for families across the city
2025 edition — highlights and public response
This year’s Sadars (held in late October 2025) featured the familiar mix of devotion and pageantry. At Narayanguda, processions packed adjoining roads and attracted large neighbourhood crowds; the festival also drew local leaders and politicians, reflecting its civic as well as cultural footprint. Media coverage emphasised the colourful buffalo parade, traditional drumming and youth-led performances — and the participation of championship animals brought extra attention to the event’s livestock traditions.
Cultural significance: identity, livelihood and living heritage
Sadar is important on multiple levels:
- Community identity: For the Yadava community, the festival reinforces social bonds, honours genealogies of cattle-breeding families and showcases prized animals — a public affirmation of heri
- Livelihood recognition: The pageant celebrates animals that form the backbone of dairy and agrarian livelihoods; the ritualised display recognises breeding prowess, animal care and the economic value of livestock.
- Living heritage in an urban setting: As Hyderabad urbanises, Sadar functions as a rare, living link to rural practices and offers city audiences a direct, sensory experience of pastoral tradition. Tourism and local cultural calendars increasingly list Sadar as a noteworthy folk event.
Public safety, traffic and civic arrangements
Because Sadar draws processions through busy city streets and large spectator crowds, municipal authorities and police coordinate traffic diversions and safety measures. In recent years organisers and Hyderabad Traffic Police have issued advisories on road closures and suggested using public transport or alternate routes to avoid congestion around YMCA and other Sadar venues. Visitors are advised to follow instructions from local authorities for a safe experien
Controversies and sensitivities
Like many public traditions, Sadar sits at the intersection of celebration and sensitivity. The festival has from time to time been the focus of media debate — for instance, controversies over language or off-hand remarks involving animals can provoke public attention and political responses. Community leaders, politicians and festival organisers have in the past worked to defuse tensions and emphasise the cultural, non-political nature of the event. Observers say respectful engagement and clear messaging keep the focus on tradition and community pride.
How to experience Sadar responsibly (visitor guide)
- When to go: Sadar is held during Diwali celebrations, usually two days after Diwali. Check local listings for the Narayanguda YMCA “Pedha Sadar” timing.
- What to see: The decorated buffalo parade, teen maar bands, the traditional Go Puja and community dances are the core attractions.
- Etiquette: Sadar is a living religious and cultural event. Ask permission before photographing people close-up; do not touch or disturb animals; follow organisers’ instructions
- Logistics: Expect heavy crowds near main venues. Use public transport where possible, arrive early, and follow traffic advisories.
Why Sadar matters beyond spectacle
Sadar matters because it preserves an agricultural memory in a rapidly modernising city and provides a platform for community cohesion, rural livelihoods and cultural continuity. As Hyderabad grows into a global tech and business centre, festivals such as Sadar offer a counterpoint — a reminder that India’s urban life remains threaded to longstanding traditions and that festivals can be both celebratory and economically meaningful for artisan and livestock communities.
Also read:India’s Youngest Astronaut: Jahnavi Dangeti’s Stellar Journey to Titans Space 2029
Last Updated on: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 1:10 pm by Sakethyadav | Published by: Sakethyadav on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 1:10 pm | News Categories: Entertainment, News, Trending
About The Author
