What happened during Lashkar Bonalu as Telangana CM offered silk robes to Goddess Ujjaini Mahankali?
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Synopsis
On July 13, Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy honored Goddess Ujjaini Mahankali with silk robes during the Lashkar Bonalu festival. Thousands of devotees joined the celebrations, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Telangana. This vibrant festival culminates in predictions about the state's future, showcasing the community's devotion and unity.
Key Takeaways
- Lashkar Bonalu celebrates Goddess Mahankali with devotion and cultural pride.
- Thousands of devotees participate in offerings and rituals.
- The festival features vibrant processions and traditional dance.
- It signifies community unity and cultural heritage in Telangana.
- Rangam predicts the future, adding an engaging aspect to the festivities.
Hyderabad, July 13 (NationPress) Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy presented silk robes to Goddess Ujjaini Mahankali in Secunderabad on Sunday, commemorating the Lashkar Bonalu festival.
Accompanied by Endowments Minister Konda Surekha and several Cabinet members, the Chief Minister engaged in the celebrations that reflect the rich culture of Telangana.
The event commenced with traditional fanfare, drawing thousands of devotees who gathered to pray at the Ujjaini Mahankali temple.
Minister Surekha offered the 'Bonam' to the goddess, with participation from Ministers Ponnam Prabhakar, Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, Adluri Laxman, CM's advisor Vem Narender Reddy, MP Anil Kumar Yadav, MLAs, and other dignitaries.
The Chief Minister presented the silk robes on behalf of the state government and took part in a special puja.
Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and his wife also visited the Goddess Ujjaini Mahankali, praying for the health, prosperity, and happiness of the devotees.
Women devotees brought 'Bonam' containing cooked rice, jaggery, curd, and neem leaves as offerings to Goddess Mahankali.
The temple and surrounding streets transformed into a festive scene with women dressed in their finest, participating in various cultural programs.
To ensure a smooth celebration, authorities implemented detailed arrangements, including separate queues for women devotees.
The festival will conclude on Monday with the renowned 'Rangam', where an unmarried woman will make predictions about the state's future, followed by the Ghatam procession. This includes a caparisoned elephant carrying a portrait of the deity. The vibrant procession features potharajus dancing to rhythmic drum beats as it moves through various localities.
Ashada Bonalu, celebrated in the month of Ashada according to the Hindu calendar, honors Goddess Mahankali, with devotees, particularly women, making food offerings in specially adorned pots.
During the festivities, people engage in 'rangam' or future forecasting, along with organizing cultural events and processions.
Bonalu in Secunderabad, also known as Lashkar Bonalu, marks the second phase of this nearly month-long traditional festival in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
The festivities began at the Jagadambika Temple located on Golconda Fort.
Celebrations at Sri Simhavahini Mahankali temple in Lal Darwaza and Sri Akkanna Madanna Mahankali temple in Haribowli will take place next Sunday.
It is believed that this festival originated over 150 years ago after a significant cholera outbreak, when people thought the epidemic was a result of Goddess Mahankali's anger and sought to appease her with offerings of Bonalu.
Following the formation of Telangana in 2014, the previous TRS government declared Bonalu as the state festival.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize events like this that unite people through shared traditions and beliefs, enhancing national identity. The celebration not only honors the goddess but also strengthens social bonds within diverse communities.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lashkar Bonalu?
Lashkar Bonalu is a traditional festival celebrated in Telangana, honoring Goddess Mahankali, marked by offerings of food in decorated pots.
Why do devotees offer 'Bonam'?
Devotees offer 'Bonam' to seek blessings from Goddess Mahankali for health, prosperity, and happiness.
When is Lashkar Bonalu celebrated?
Lashkar Bonalu is celebrated in the month of Ashada according to the Hindu calendar, typically in July.
What is the significance of the 'Rangam'?
'Rangam' is a predictive ritual where an unmarried woman foresees the future of the state, forming an essential part of the festival.
How did Bonalu originate?
Bonalu originated over 150 years ago, believed to be a response to a cholera outbreak, as people sought to appease Goddess Mahankali.
