Dandari Gussadi Festival – Mancherial
The Dandari Gussadi Festival is a vibrant tribal celebration observed by the Gond community in the Mancherial district. This festival is held during the Deepavali season and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Gonds. The highlight of the festival is the Gussadi dance, where male performers dress in traditional attire, wearing decorated headgear, ornaments, and body paint. They visit villages, dancing to the rhythmic beats of dhols and traditional instruments.
The festival represents joy, unity, and gratitude toward nature. It also reflects the tribal belief system, honoring local deities and ancestral spirits. The colorful costumes, energetic dance movements, and festive celebrations attract visitors from across Telangana. Today, the Dandari Gussadi Festival stands as a symbol of pride for the Gond community and an important cultural event in Mancherial