Bonalu: History and Observances

Bonalu History & Observances

Bonalu is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated in the southern Indian states of Telangana & Andhra Pradesh. The word Bonalu is derived from the Telugu word Bhojanalu which means offerings or feasts. This festival is dedicated to Goddess Mahakali & is celebrated with great fervor & devotion by the people of these states.

History of Bonalu

The history of Bonalu dates back to the 19th century when a deadly plague broke out in the twin cities of Hyderabad & Secunderabad. The people believed that the plague was a result of the anger of the Goddess Mahakali. To appease the Goddess & seek her blessings they started offering Bonalu (food offerings) to her. Miraculously the plague subsidedand since then the festival of Bonalu has been celebrated every year as a thanksgiving to the Goddess.

Observances of Bonalu

Bonalu is celebrated in the month of Ashada (July August) on Sundays in different temples dedicated to Goddess Mahakali. The festival lasts for a month with each Sunday dedicated to a different deity. The main celebrations take place at the Golconda Fort Ujjaini Mahankali Templeand the Secunderabad Laldarwaza Mahankali Temple.

During the festival women dress up in traditional sarees & jewelry & carry Bonalu (decorated pots) on their heads filled with offerings like cooked rice jaggery curdand turmeric. They dance to the beats of drums & offer the Bonalu to the Goddess as a symbol of gratitude & devotion.

Another important aspect of the Bonalu festival is the Ghatam procession where a decorated pot symbolizing the Goddess is carried in a grand procession through the streets. The procession is accompanied by music danceand devotees chanting hymns in praise of the Goddess.

As part of the rituals special pujas & prayers are performed at the templesand priests offer blessings to the devotees. The festival culminates with the immersion of the Bonalu pots in water bodies symbolizing the departure of the Goddess after receiving the offerings.

Overall Bonalu is a festival that brings together communities strengthens cultural bondsand fosters a sense of unity & devotion among the people. It is a time to express gratitude to the Goddess for her blessings & seek her continued protection & guidance.

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Celebrate the spirit of Bonalu with joy & devotionand may the blessings of Goddess Mahakali be with you always