For the first time ever, the Jeelugulowa community in Telangana’s Anakapalle district danced the traditional Dhimsa with joy, because their village finally has electricity.

Tucked away on the top of Samalamma hill, Jeelugulowa is home to just eight families with a population of 50 people. Until now, life after sunset meant surviving in darkness, amid dense forests and wild animals. The villagers used candles to eat, walked 7 km to Bangaru Bandalu to charge their phones, and lived in fear at night, especially when someone fell ill or was bitten by a snake.

Their long wait for basic infrastructure has finally ended. After multiple protests and appeals during Visakha Zilla Parishad meetings, and a visit from the National Human Rights Commission Chairman and Anakapalle Collector in 2022, promises were made to provide electricity, water, and roads. Aadhaar and ration cards were issued, but progress remained slow.

On Sunday night, the lights came on. Under the Janman scheme, power finally reached the village — prompting a celebration with dance and heartfelt gratitude. The villagers extended special thanks to the Anakapalle District Collector and the electricity department engineers.

CPI(M) district executive committee members K Govinda Rao and K Mahesh were also thanked for their continued support. While electricity is a big win, the villagers say they still await roads and drinking water.