Hyderabad Old City Bonalu on July 16 and 17th 2023,Secunderabad Bonalu on 9th and 10th

Telangana Ashada masa Bonalu 2023 festivities will begin at Jagadamba temple, Golconda Fort on June 25 and 26, Sunday,Monday. The gala celebrations at Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad will be held on July 9, 10. Hyderabad Old city Bonalu will be celebrated on July 16 ,17, Sunday,Monday at various Mahankali temples including Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple, Lal Darwaza,Akkanna Madanna  temple,Gowlipura Kota Maisamma temple,Muthalamma temple near Sudha Cinepolic Theatre, Sultanshahi Jagadambika temple in the state of Telangana.

Bonalu is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated in the Telangana region of India, particularly in the city of Hyderabad. It is an annual festival held during the months of Ashada and Shravana (July-August) and is dedicated to the goddess Mahakali. Bonalu is an integral part of the Telangana cultural heritage and holds immense significance for the local people.

In 2023, Bonalu in Hyderabad is expected to be celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, just like in previous years. The festival typically lasts for a month and involves various rituals and festivities. It is a time when people come together to express their devotion to the goddess and seek her blessings for their well-being and prosperity.

The highlight of the Bonalu festival is the ghatam procession, which takes place on specific auspicious days. A ghatam is a decorated pot containing rice, curd, jaggery, and other offerings. The ghatams are carried by women, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, on their heads, as they dance and make their way to the temple. The procession is accompanied by drummers and musicians, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

During the Bonalu festival, numerous temples across Hyderabad are beautifully adorned with flowers, lights, and decorations. Devotees offer special prayers, perform rituals, and make offerings to the goddess. The air is filled with the aroma of incense sticks, and devotional songs and hymns can be heard throughout the city.

Apart from the religious aspect, Bonalu is also a time for cultural celebrations. Traditional folk dances, such as the famous Bathukamma and Kolatam, are performed by both men and women. These dances are characterized by rhythmic movements, colorful costumes, and lively music. People gather in large numbers to witness these cultural performances, and the festivities continue late into the night.

Food also plays a significant role during the Bonalu festival. Special delicacies and sweets are prepared and distributed among family, friends, and neighbors. Traditional dishes like pulihora (tamarind rice), vada, and sweet Pongal are commonly made and shared as a symbol of joy and togetherness.

Furthermore, Bonalu is not just restricted to the temples and homes. The festival also witnesses processions and events organized by various cultural and community associations in different parts of the city. These events showcase the rich cultural heritage of Telangana through music, dance, and art forms.

In recent years, Bonalu in Hyderabad has gained attention and popularity beyond the local community. Tourists and visitors from different parts of India and abroad travel to Hyderabad to experience the vibrant festivities and immerse themselves in the cultural extravaganza.

It is important to note that the specific dates and celebrations of Bonalu in 2023 may vary slightly as the festival follows the lunar calendar. The exact schedule and details can be obtained closer to the festival time from local sources or authorities.

Overall, Bonalu in Hyderabad is a time of devotion, celebration, and cultural expression. It brings people together, strengthens community bonds, and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Telangana. The festival provides a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse traditions of the region, making it a truly unique and memorable experience for all who participate.