Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The historic Bonalu festival at Sri Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad commenced grandly on Sunday. TPCC Vice President Dr. Kota Neelima has been overseeing the arrangements for three days.

The festivities commenced at 4am with the opening of the temple doors, accompanied by Vedic chants. Minister Ponnam Prabhakar led the first puja, offering Bonam to the goddess, followed by Dr. Kota Neelima’s offering. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy joined the rituals, presenting silk clothes to the Goddess and offering prayers, while other ministers were warmly welcomed by the temple staff.

Dr. Neelima emphasized the festival’s deep roots in Hyderabad’s culture, revealing that the Bonalu Jathara on the 13th and 14th will be celebrated on a grand scale, expecting lakhs of devotees. The government has arranged special measures, including six dedicated queue lines for devotees, with provisions for women carrying Bonam and VIPs.

The temple is adorned with vibrant decorations, while the GHMC ensures cleanliness and sanitation. Special medical camps and water stations have been set up, and cultural programs showcasing Telangana’s traditions will be held for devotees. Dr. Neelima also thanked CM Revanth Reddy, Minister Konda Surekha, and Ponnam Prabhakar for their significant contributions to the festival's success, which has seen large crowds participate in the Bonalu and procession events.