A Pothuraju performing during the celebration of Bonalu at Golconda Fort in Hyderabad on Sunday.
| Photo Credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR
As the afternoon sky remained overcast on Sunday, the historic Golconda Fort transformed into a vibrant sea of devotion and tradition. From as far as half a kilometre away, roads leading to the fort were teeming with people, mostly women dressed in traditional sarees, carrying decorated bonams on their heads, accompanied by family members and bands playing rhythmic folk music. All were headed to seek the blessings of Goddess Jagadambika Yellamma, enshrined atop the fort.
The crowd began to increase as the day progressed, with narrow entrance gates of the fort witnessing a steady stream of devotees. Bonams, or earthen pots containing cooked rice, jaggery, curd and other offerings, balanced on the heads of women formed a striking sight against the backdrop of the ancient fort as they ascended its steep steps in unison.
“Our family has been coming here to celebrate Bonalu for decades now. Even though we live in Miyapur, which is on the other side of the city, there is a special feeling we get when we offer our prayers here,” said 49-year-old Anitha Devi, one of the many devotees climbing to the temple atop the fort.
Some devotees had completed their rituals earlier in the day and were preparing for a feast. “We got done with the offerings. We will eat here and then head back home,” said 36-year-old Renuka Reddy, a resident of Kukatpally.
To manage the massive turnout, the police had put in place crowd control measures, including barricades to regulate entry and exit points. Medical teams and ambulances were stationed as a precautionary measure.
Devotees carry ‘Bonam’ during the Bonalu festival at Golconda Fort.
| Photo Credit:
SIDDHANT THAKUR
Endowments Commissioner S.Venkat Rao monitored the proceedings closely throughout the day. “Police have been instructed to manage the growing crowds effectively, especially around the fort area. Measures have been taken to avoid overcrowding and maintain order throughout the event,” he said.
Bonalu, one of Telangana’s most significant folk festivals, has its roots in the 18th century. According to local lore, during a deadly plague outbreak in 1813, soldiers from a military battalion stationed in Ujjaini prayed to Goddess Mahakali for protection. When the plague subsided and they returned home safely, they installed an idol of the goddess in gratitude. The annual Bonalu festival has since continued as a heartfelt tribute to the divine.
Published – June 30, 2025 01:05 am IST
