Bonalu is a traditional Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Ma Mahakali, celebrated predominantly in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, as well as in other parts of Telangana, India. The name “Bonalu” is derived from the Telugu word “Bonam,” meaning “meal,” which refers to the special offering made to the Ma.
When is Bonalu Celebrated?
The festival is held annually during the Hindu month of Ashada Masam (June/July). Special poojas are performed for Ma Yellamma on the first and last day of the festival. Bonalu is regarded as an act of thanksgiving to the Ma after the fulfilment of vows.
Bonam Offering and Rituals
Women prepare rice cooked with milk and jaggery in new earthen or brass pots adorned with neem leaves, turmeric, and vermilion. These pots are carried on their heads as an offering to the Ma, along with bangles and sarees. The offerings are made at temples dedicated to various forms of Mahakali, such as Mysamma, Pochamma, Yellamma, Dokkalamma, Pedamma, Poleramma, Ankalamma, Maremma, and Nookalamma.
Origin of the Festival
The origins of Bonalu date back to 1813 when a deadly plague struck Hyderabad and Secunderabad. A military battalion stationed in Ujjain prayed to Ma Mahakali, promising to install her idol in Secunderabad if the plague were to end. The plague subsided, and in gratitude, the battalion fulfilled its vow by installing the idol and offering Bonalu.
Celebrations and Temples
Bonalu celebrations span various Sundays of the Ashada month. The festivities begin at the Golconda Fort on the first Sunday, followed by celebrations at Ujjaini Mahakali Temple in Secunderabad and Balkampet Yellamma Temple on the second Sunday. The third Sunday sees celebrations at the Pochamma and Katta Maisamma temples near Chilkalguda, as well as the Matheswari Temple at Lal Darwaza in Old Hyderabad. Other prominent temples include Akkanna Madanna Temple in Haribowli and Muthyalamma Temple in Shah Ali Banda.
Traditional Attire and Dance
Women wear traditional saris and jewellery, while young girls don half-sarees, reflecting cultural elegance. Some women believed to be possessed by the Ma’s spirit dance in a trance-like state to drumbeats while balancing bonam pots. Devotees sprinkle water on their feet to calm the aggressive spirit.
Thottelu Offerings
Colourful paper structures called Thottelu, supported by sticks, are offered as a symbol of respect to the Ma.
Pothuraju – The Protector
Pothuraju, believed to be the brother of the Ma, is represented by a muscular man dressed in a red dhoti, with turmeric-smeared skin and vermilion on his forehead. He leads processions, dancing energetically to drumbeats, symbolising protection and strength.
The Feast and Community Sharing
The Bonam offering is not only made to the Ma but also shared among family members and guests, emphasizing togetherness and gratitude.
Rangam – The Oracle Ceremony
The morning following the main festival features Rangam, where a woman, believed to be possessed by the Ma, predicts the future for the coming year.
Ghatam Procession
The Ghatam, a copper pot symbolizing the deity, is decorated and carried by a turmeric-smeared priest. The Ghatam procession runs from the beginning of the festival to its conclusion, ending with the immersion of the pot in water. The most prominent is the Ghatam from Akkanna Madanna Temple, carried atop an elephant and followed by horsemen and symbolic representations of Akkanna and Madanna. The grand immersion takes place at Nayapul, joined by Ghatams from various temples.
Schedule of Bonalu Celebrations (2025)
According to the Endowment Department, the Bonalu celebrations will follow this schedule:
- 1st Bonam: June 26
- 2nd Bonam: June 29
- 3rd Bonam: July 3
- 4th Bonam: July 6
- 5th Bonam: July 10
- 6th Bonam: July 13
- 7th Bonam: July 17
- 8th Bonam: July 20
- 9th Bonam: July 24
Major Celebrations
Besides Golconda Fort, key celebrations are scheduled at:
- Ujjaini Mahankali Temple, Secunderabad: July 13
- Simhavahini Ammavari Temple, Lal Darwaza: July 20
Cultural Significance
Bonalu is not just a religious event but a vibrant expression of Telangana’s rich cultural tapestry. It brings communities together, celebrates feminine divinity, and reinforces traditional values and social harmony.
This centuries-old festival remains a powerful symbol of devotion, unity, and cultural pride in Telangana.
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