Rottela Panduga, also known as the Roti Festival, is one of the most unique religious and cultural events celebrated in Nellore, a coastal city in Andhra Pradesh, India. Held annually at the Bara Shaheed Dargah on the banks of Nellore tank, this festival is an incredible example of communal harmony, spiritual devotion, and traditional belief. It attracts thousands of devotees from across India and abroad, regardless of caste, creed, or religion.
Celebrated during Muharram, this multi-day festival is famous for the symbolic exchange of rotis (flatbreads) between pilgrims as a mark of fulfilling vows and making new wishes. The ritual is based on faith and mutual goodwill, with women forming long queues near the lake to participate in this spiritual tradition.
Let’s dive deep into the origin, rituals, significance, visitor guidance, and frequently asked questions related to Rottela Panduga.
✨ What is Rottela Panduga?
Rottela Panduga is an annual urs (death anniversary) commemorating the twelve martyrs (Bara Shaheed) buried at the Bara Shaheed Dargah in Nellore. During this time, the faithful gather to offer prayers, exchange rotis, and seek blessings.
The word "Rottela" means rotis (flatbreads), and "Panduga" means festival. As the name suggests, the core ritual involves exchanging rotis in a ceremonial fashion at the Nellore tank, where devotees pray for everything from good health to marriage proposals, jobs, children, and personal well-being.
🕰️ History and Origin of the Roti Festival
The roots of the Roti Festival can be traced back more than 300 years. It is believed that twelve warriors from different regions were martyred in a battle for justice and truth and were laid to rest at the current site of Bara Shaheed Dargah. Locals consider the dargah as sacred as any other pilgrimage center, and over the years, it became a hub of miraculous tales and answered prayers.
One particular story tells of a woman who had her wish fulfilled after offering a roti in gratitude, and soon, others began following suit. Gradually, the ritual of exchanging rotis evolved as a spiritual practice — where one person offers a roti as a mark of a fulfilled wish and another takes it while praying for a similar desire.
📜 Rituals of the Rottela Panduga
The Rottela Panduga is not just a religious event but a spiritual and emotional journey for many pilgrims. The rituals span several days and are rich in tradition and devotion.
🔸 1. Offering Prayers at the Bara Shaheed Dargah
Devotees begin their pilgrimage by offering chadar (decorated cloth), incense, and flowers at the dargah, seeking blessings from the martyrs. Many families offer rice, meat, fruits, and sweets to the poor as part of their vows.
🔸 2. The Sacred Exchange of Rotis
This is the highlight of the festival. Women gather in large numbers at the Nellore tank near the dargah, carrying rotis that are either plain or inscribed with names and desires. In a unique tradition, they exchange these rotis with strangers who have similar wishes or dreams.
For instance, someone who got a government job may give her roti to another who is aspiring for the same. The exchange is accompanied by phrases like "Mee korika tirchukondi" (May your wish come true).
🔸 3. Water Ritual
After exchanging the rotis, the women float the rotis in the Nellore tank or throw them into the water as a symbolic offering to the martyrs and a prayer to fulfill their wishes.
🔸 4. Community Feeding (Annadanam)
During the festival, thousands of poor and visiting pilgrims are fed by local families and trusts. The entire atmosphere becomes one of sharing, service, and spiritual unity.
A Festival Beyond Religion
One of the most beautiful aspects of Rottela Panduga is that people from all religions and regions participate, showcasing India's pluralistic spirit. Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and even people from tribal communities come together, blurring the lines of religious identity in the name of faith and humanity.
It is also women-centric, with a majority of rituals performed by women — making it a rare spiritual platform empowering female devotees.
📍 When and Where was Rottela Panduga 2025 Celebrated?
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Rottela Panduga is an annual three-day festival held at the Bara Shaheed Dargah in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh.
It is observed in the month of Muharram as the urs (death anniversary) of the 12 martyrs buried in the shrine. For 2025, Rottela Panduga is being celebrated from July 6th to July 11th.
How to Reach Nellore
🚆 By Train:
Nellore is well-connected via the South Central Railway. Trains from Chennai, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Bangalore regularly halt here.
✈️ By Air:
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Tirupati Airport (120 km away) is the nearest airport.
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Chennai International Airport (170 km) is another option for international travelers.
🚌 By Road:
APSRTC and private buses operate frequently between Nellore and major cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Vijayawada, and Bangalore.
🏨 Accommodation Options in Nellore
During the festival, accommodation demand is high. It is advisable to book in advance. Some popular choices include:
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Hotel Minerva Grand
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Seasons Inn
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Hotel Yesh Park
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Bhavani Residency
Budget lodges and dharmashalas near the dargah are also available for pilgrims.
Important Tips for Visitors
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Respect religious customs, irrespective of your own faith.
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Women must dress modestly and bring rotis if they wish to participate.
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Carry drinking water and light food as the area can get crowded.
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Be cautious around the Nellore tank; follow safety instructions.
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Avoid plastic use and keep the premises clean.
Other Nearby Attractions
While in Nellore, consider visiting:
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Jonnawada Kamakshi Temple – A famous Hindu temple on the Penna River.
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Penchalakona – A scenic religious site with waterfalls and the Narasimha Swamy temple.
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Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary – Ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers.
For More Information Visit : Rottela Panduga
Conclusion: A Divine Offering of Hope and Harmony
The Rottela Panduga Festival is more than just a religious gathering; it is a celebration of belief, unity, and compassion. At a time when divisions are rampant, this festival stands as a shining example of interfaith harmony and spiritual generosity. The faithful gather on the banks of Nellore Tank, carrying their wishes folded in soft rotis, they won’t just be exchanging bread — they’ll be sharing hope.
🙋♀️ People Also Ask (FAQs)
🔹 What is Rottela Panduga and why is it celebrated?
Rottela Panduga is a unique religious festival held in Nellore where devotees exchange rotis at the Bara Shaheed Dargah to thank the martyrs and seek fulfillment of their wishes.
🔹 Who can participate in the Roti Festival?
Anyone, regardless of religion, caste, or gender, can participate. However, the roti exchange ritual is primarily performed by women.
🔹 Is Rottela Panduga only for Muslims?
No. Though it is observed at a Muslim dargah, the festival is secular in nature and is attended by Hindus, Christians, and people of other faiths.
🔹 When was Rottela Panduga celebrated in 2025?
For 2025, Rottela Panduga is being celebrated from July 6th to July 11th.
🔹 How are rotis exchanged during the festival?
Women exchange rotis with others who have similar wishes. One who got her wish fulfilled gives the roti to another as a blessing for their wish to be fulfilled.
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