Every region in India has its specialty and its festivals. These celebrations provide an insight into the nation’s rich cultural diversity and customs. They portray the unique traditions of every location while bringing people together in joy. One such prominent festival is the Hyderabad Bonalu festival.
The colorful Bonalu festival is celebrated annually in the twin towns of Secunderabad and Hyderabad and other regions of Telangana state in India. This festival, which pays honor to the powerful goddess Mahakali, is deeply rooted in Telangana’s cultural and spiritual customs. Bonalu is celebrated in the auspicious months of July and August (Ashada Masam). It is a mesmerizing fusion of rituals, customs, and uplifting enthusiasm that provides a unique view into the region’s rich tradition. If you want to know more about the Bonalu festival, then continue reading.
Origins of Bonalu Festival
The twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad are deeply connected to Bonalu, which dates back to 1213 AD. The Telugu word “bhojanam,” which means “meal,” is the source of the name Bonalu. It refers to the food that was offered to the goddess. It is thought to have originated as a way for the military battalions of Hyderabad to fulfill a commitment they made to Goddess Mahakali in Ujjain, to protect their city from a terrible epidemic. The Bonalu tradition began when they placed an idol of the goddess in their city after their prayers were heard and the disease disappeared.
Rituals and Traditions
Many colorful and detailed events are performed along with the Bonalu celebration. Women hold special significance as they are often regarded as goddesses. They bring decorative pots called “bonam” filled with rice, jaggery, curd, and other offerings. Women are dressed in traditional sarees and ornamented with jewelry. These pots are carried on their heads in a parade led by drummers, dancers, and entertainers. They are decorated with neem leaves, turmeric, vermillion, and a lit diya on top. Lead dancer Pothuraju, who is dressed in vermillion and turmeric and dances to the beat of drums, is thought to be the brother of the deity.
Hyderabad and Secunderabad Bonalu Celebrations
The Bonalu celebrations start on a Sunday in the Ashada Masam with the “Edurukolu,” during which the goddess is said to visit households in the form of a “ghatam” (a decorated copper pot). On the third Sunday, people celebrate “Bonalu Jatara,” on Monday, they celebrate “Rangam,” a festival in which women who are said to be possessed by the goddess make fortune predictions. The main attraction of the festivities is the Ujjaini Mahakali Temple in Secunderabad, which attracts large crowds of worshippers. Notable temples such as SriDevi Pochamma Temple, Sri Muthyalamma Temple, and several more take part in the celebrations, offering special customs and rituals.
Also Read: 5 Famous Festivals of India: Celebration and Significance
Food in Hyderabad Bonalu
During the Bonalu festival, food plays a major part in expressing the sense of togetherness and devotion. As a sacrifice to the goddess, devotees arrange a feast that includes meats and traditional sweets. Buffalo sacrifices were offered in the past, but in the present, due to the government’s control of animal sacrifice, symbolic offerings like pumpkins, coconuts, and lemons have mostly taken the place of buffalo sacrifices. After being offered to the goddess, the food offerings are then distributed to the devotees, enhancing the festival’s social atmosphere.
Pothuraju and Rangam
A major figure in the Bonalu procession, Pothuraju represents the guardian and creator of the celebrations. He leads the parade with energy and excitement, his body covered in colorful paint and bells. The day after the major festival is dedicated to a special ceremony called “Rangam,” in which women who are believed to be possessed by the goddess offer fortune-telling predictions. This ritual adds a mystery to the festival.
Ghatam and the Final Rituals
Priests carry around a decorated copper pot known as a “ghatam” during the celebration, which symbolizes the goddess’s presence. The ghatam is submerged in water on the last day of Bonalu, signifying the end of the celebrations. Grand processions, music, and dance are all part of this ceremony, which concludes in an amazing show of devotion and cultural legacy.
The joyful celebration of faith, culture, and community that embodies the rich traditions of twin cities is celebrated as the Hyderabad Bonalu festival. It provides a unique window into Telangana’s spiritual life with its historical significance, rich rituals, and joyous environment. Experiencing the Bonalu festival is a must-do if you’re thinking about visiting India. Are you interested and want to experience this festival? Then book your last minute flights to Hyderabad now.
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