Sadar in Hyderabad: Where buffalo worship meets animal welfare concerns

Three buffaloes stood at the centre of animal welfare concerns during the Sadar festival in Moti Nagar in Hyderabad, raising questions about tradition and care. The Telangana government declared Sadar Sammelan a state festival, with local events held in areas including Moti Nagar, Nagole, Nimbolli Adda and Musheerabad. A community organiser stated that celebrations now stretch until the end of the month, with people from various communities organising events. Owners stated that maintaining a buffalo costs around Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000 every month on feed such as grass, fodder and grains, and owners bear veterinary costs themselves. An owner said, “We give them grass, fodder, grains and other feed. We do not feed them things such as grapes and almonds.” Organisers bear the transport costs of bringing animals from other states to showcase different breeds.