The Ashadam’ Bonalu festivitival began at the Jagadamba Mahankali temple on Thursday in Hyderabad.

A Procession called ‘Ghatam’ was started from Langar Houz. Women were seen participating in large numbers. They carried decorated pots, on their head filled with jaggery and rice.

Security arrangements have been made by the city police throughout enroute-Banjara Darwaza and Fateh Darwaza till Golconda fort.

Endowments Minister Indrakaran Reddy offered silk clothes to Goddess Jagadamba Mahankali on  behalf of the State government on Thursday. The State government is bearing the expenditure of the whole festival as it was declared Bonalu as Telangana State festival.

Cinematography Minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav and Mayor Bonthu Rammohan were also seen participating in the celebrations. Speaking to the media, Srinivas Yadav said, “The Bonalu festivities have begun and every Sunday till the end of Ashada masam, the celebrations will be held in a peaceful manner.”  

A devotee P Sree Latha said, “Every year we ensure that Bonam is offered to the Goddess on the first day of the festival. It brings good luck and health.”

Temple representatives said that “the police, Electricity department, Water Works department and peace maintaining committee worked in tandem for the last 15 days for the smooth conduct of the celebrations.”

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By M. Divya Shri