Nostalgia Resurrects Rachha Banda at Thimmapuram
Villagers ban browsing phone, insist on in-person meet
Nalgonda: Villagers of Thimmapuram in Jajireddygudem mandal in Suryapet district have revived the traditional “Rachha Banda,” the space for people to come together, discuss local issues, and spend time with one another. Browsing the internet or social media is strictly prohibited at the place.
Thimmapuram is a major gram panchayat located 18 km from Suryapet and 143 km from Hyderabad.
Once upon a time, Rachha Bandas were familiar spots in villages where people could meet and discuss their issues. But they disappeared after social life changed with the advent of modern gadgets like mobile phones.
However, the nostaligic people of the SC Colony in Thimmapuram pooled in `2 lakh and set up an Rachha Banda, albeit with a roof and two ceiling fans.
To maintain the true character of the community place, the village elders banned people from browsing social media or the web on phones at the Rachha Banda and insisted that all discussions be held in person.
Villager Boddu Somaiah said people have been gathering at the Rachha Banda both in the morning and evening. The location has the highest number of people on holidays.
Another villager Geedi Narsaiah said senior people like him gather at the Rachha Banda after younger family members leave for work. “We have great fun, exchanging gossip,” he disclosed. Sonaboina Saidulu says he visits the Rachha Banda every day to read the newspaper and discusses the news as well as political developments.
Jeedimetla Narsaiah asked officials to provide drinking water at the Rachha Banda.
