How Did Gaiety Mark Bonalu Celebrations in Hyderabad?
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Synopsis
Hyderabad's Bonalu festival unfolded with vibrant traditions and thousands of devotees participating in the festivities. Key officials, including the Deputy Chief Minister, offered prayers, while extensive preparations ensured a safe and joyous celebration for all.
Key Takeaways
- Bonalu is celebrated in Hyderabad, honoring goddess Mahankali.
- Thousands participate in rituals and offerings.
- State government officials actively partake in the festivities.
- Security and logistical arrangements are extensive to support the event.
- The festival has historical roots dating back over 150 years.
Hyderabad, July 20 (NationPress) The vibrant 'Bonalu' festival was observed in Hyderabad on Sunday, showcasing rich traditions as thousands of worshippers engaged in the celebrations.
Among those participating were Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and various state ministers, who collectively offered prayers at the Mahankali temples located in the historic areas of Hyderabad.
Deputy Chief Minister Vikramarka, along with Ministers Ponnam Prabhakar, Vakati Srihari, and Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, presented silk garments to the deity at the Simhavahini Mahankali temple situated at Lal Darwaza on behalf of the state government.
Vikramarka expressed their prayers for the state's growth, as well as for the well-being and joy of its citizens.
Notable figures such as former Haryana governor Bandaru Dattatreya, BJP MP K. Laxman, MLA D. Nagender, BRS MLC K. Kavitha, BJP leader Madhavi Latha, and TTD chairman B. R. Naidu were also present at the Mahankali Temple in Lal Darwaza, the historic Akkanna Madanna temple at Hari Bowli in Shah Ali Banda, and other sites throughout the city to pay their respects to the deity.
This festival, honoring the Hindu goddess of strength, Mahankali or Kali, aims to dispel negativity and bring about tranquility.
Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy also paid his respects at the Mahankali temple in Amberpet.
Devotees, notably a large contingent of women, formed long queues at the temples to present Bonalu, which comprises cooked rice, jaggery, yogurt, and turmeric water, carried in steel and clay pots atop their heads.
Since its designation as the state festival following the establishment of Telangana in 2014, Bonalu has been celebrated with immense enthusiasm and grandeur.
Various government bodies have ensured all essential arrangements for the influx of devotees visiting the temples, including drinking water, sanitation, road access, and consistent power supply.
Extensive security measures were implemented for the festival, with around 1,200 police officers deployed around the Lal Darwaza temple.
The two-day celebration will wrap up on Monday with 'Rangam', the oracle prediction at the Akkanna Madanna temple, followed by a grand procession featuring a caparisoned elephant, transporting the 'ghatam' of goddess Mahankali.
This procession will traverse essential routes in the old city, passing by the historic Charminar, before concluding at the Delhi Darwaza Matha Temple near the Musi River, where the ghatam will be immersed.
Authorities mandated the temporary closure of all liquor shops, bars, restaurants, and toddy outlets within Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Rachakonda Commissionerates in observance of the festival.
Bonalu is celebrated across various regions of Hyderabad and Secunderabad during the month of Ashadam. Also referred to as Ashada Jatra Utsavalu, it occurs on four Sundays in different locations within the twin cities. The previous Sunday saw celebrations in Secunderabad, where Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy made offerings.
This festival has roots that trace back over 150 years, originating after a significant cholera outbreak when people believed the disease was a result of Mahankali's wrath, prompting them to offer Bonalu to appease her.
Point of View
The Bonalu festival stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India, particularly within Telangana. It demonstrates the unity of diverse communities in celebration, while also showcasing the government's commitment to ensuring safety and accessibility during such significant events.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bonalu?
Bonalu is a traditional festival dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mahankali, celebrated primarily in Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
When is Bonalu celebrated?
Bonalu is observed during the month of Ashadam, specifically on four Sundays across different locations in the twin cities.
What are the offerings made during Bonalu?
Devotees offer Bonalu, which includes cooked rice, jaggery, yogurt, and turmeric water, often carried in pots on their heads.
Why is Bonalu significant?
Bonalu is significant for its cultural heritage and as a means of seeking blessings from the goddess Mahankali to ward off evil and promote peace.
What security measures are in place for Bonalu?
Extensive security measures are implemented, including the deployment of police personnel to ensure the safety of participants during the festival.
