Hyderabad: With Ashada Bonalu just weeks away, Minister for Endowments Konda Surekha has directed officials to ensure meticulous planning and seamless execution across all 28 temple sites hosting the iconic Telangana festival. She chaired a detailed review meeting on Tuesday at the Secretariat, laying out the state’s expectations and readiness ahead of the celebrations.
“The festival must go off without a hitch. Even the smallest oversight is unacceptable,” she told officials, adding that ₹20 crore has already been sanctioned by the government for Bonalu-related arrangements. “This time, there’s no budget constraint we’re fully backing the festival,” she assured.
Minister Surekha emphasised the need to learn from past challenges. “We must revisit the issues faced during previous editions and formulate a clear plan of action well in advance,” she said, instructing officials to act swiftly and cohesively.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders including Hyderabad Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi, Rajya Sabha MP Anil Kumar Yadav, Principal Secretary for Endowments Shailaja Ramaiyer, DGP Jitender, Endowments Director Venkata Rao, Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand, district collectors, senior police officials and department heads.
Bonalu, one of Telangana’s most vibrant and deeply rooted folk festivals, kicked off with traditional fervour at the historic Golconda Fort, where the first “Bonam” was offered to the goddess. The celebrations stretch through the entire month of Ashadam, beginning on the first Thursday and concluding on the final Sunday.
From Golconda, the festivities shift to Secunderabad’s Ujjaini Mahankali temple, before spreading across the city with grand observances at Lal Darwaza, Dhoolpet, Balkampet, Puranapul, and Kothabasti each location adding its own flavor to the cultural spectacle.
The state is gearing up not only for large-scale temple events but also to manage the surging crowds, security arrangements, sanitation, and cultural programmes across key festival zones. With early planning and full financial backing, officials are aiming for a smooth and memorable Bonalu season this year.
