Bonalu

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Bonalu is a Hindu festival celebrated in the Telangana region of India, particularly in the city of Hyderabad. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Mahakali and is observed during the month of Ashada, which typically falls in July and August.

Etymology

The word "Bonalu" is derived from the word "Bhojanalu," which means meals or a feast in Telugu. The festival involves the offering of meals to the goddess as a form of thanksgiving.

History

The origins of Bonalu can be traced back to the 18th century when a plague epidemic broke out in the region. The people believed that the epidemic was a result of the anger of the goddess Mahakali. To appease her, they started offering meals and performing rituals, which eventually evolved into the Bonalu festival.

Rituals and Celebrations

Bonalu is marked by various rituals and celebrations, including:

Offerings

Devotees prepare a special meal consisting of rice, jaggery, curd, and other ingredients, which is offered to the goddess in decorated pots. These pots are carried by women on their heads in a procession to the temple.

Pothuraju

A significant feature of the festival is the presence of Pothuraju, the brother of the goddess, who leads the procession. He is usually a well-built man, dressed in a traditional attire, and performs dances to the beats of drums.

Ghatam

The Ghatam is a copper pot decorated with flowers and carried by a priest. It is taken in a procession through the streets, accompanied by music and dance, and is eventually immersed in water.

Temples

The main temples where Bonalu is celebrated include the Sri Ujjaini Mahakali Temple in Secunderabad, the Sri Mahakali Temple in Lal Darwaza, and the Akkanna Madanna Temple in Haribowli.

Significance

Bonalu is not just a religious festival but also a cultural event that brings together people from different communities. It is a time for family reunions, social gatherings, and community bonding.

Modern Celebrations

In recent years, the government of Telangana has taken steps to promote Bonalu as a state festival. Various cultural programs, exhibitions, and fairs are organized to celebrate the occasion.

See Also

• Telangana
• Hyderabad
• Hindu festivals
• Mahakali