Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Sunday, 8 November 2026, offered prayers at the Bhagyalakshmi Temple adjoining the historic Charminar in Hyderabad on the occasion of Diwali. The Governor was accompanied by his spouse, Janaki Shukla, who joined him in offering special prayers to the Goddess.

Visit to the Temple

Temple trustee Shashikala received the Governor and his spouse and briefed them on the historical and religious significance of the Bhagyalakshmi Temple, one of Hyderabad's most visited shrines owing to its location against the base of the Charminar. Governor Shukla prayed for the prosperity of the nation and Telangana, and extended wishes for happiness, peace, and good health to the people of the state.

Governor's Diwali Message

Ahead of the visit, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla had extended Diwali greetings to the people of Telangana, urging them to celebrate the festival with love, compassion, and a spirit of service. He called upon citizens to spread happiness, support the underprivileged, promote indigenous products, and celebrate safely. 'Diwali symbolises the victory of light over darkness,' he said, underscoring the festival's broader social message.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's Greetings

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy also extended warm Diwali greetings to the people of the state. He said the 'People's Government' is committed to bringing light into the lives of every citizen and is working toward the welfare of all sections of society and the holistic development of Telangana. 'Diwali holds special significance symbolising the victory of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance,' the Chief Minister said. He also appealed to residents to celebrate in an environmentally responsible manner and exercise caution while bursting crackers.

Andhra Pradesh Leaders Extend Wishes

Neighbouring Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also conveyed Diwali greetings. Governor Abdul Nazeer emphasised the festival's spirit of communal harmony, stating: 'The lights of Deepavali signify a time to destroy all our dark desires and thoughts, eradicate evils and gives us the strength and zeal to help each other. Festivals like these inspire us to build a society filled with peace, amity, brotherhood and communal harmony.'

Significance of the Bhagyalakshmi Temple

The Bhagyalakshmi Temple, situated at the foot of the Charminar in Hyderabad, is a prominent place of worship that draws large numbers of devotees, particularly during festivals. Its location adjacent to the 400-year-old monument makes it one of the most recognisable religious sites in the city. The Governor's visit this Diwali continues a tradition of constitutional dignitaries paying their respects at the temple during major Hindu festivals.