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Bonalu is another folk festival, which is
very famous in the Telangana region. The word "Bonalu" is
derived from "Bhojanalu" meaning food, which is offered to the
Goddess. This century old tradition is celebrated with utmost gaiety and
devotional fervour. It is celebrated during the month of 'Ashadh'. This
one-month long festival is marked by devotional singing and ritualistic
worship to the village deities "Yellamma", "Mahankali",
"Maisamma", "Pochamma", and "Gundamma".
A
typical feature of the Bonalu festival are the `Ghatams' or decorated pots
filled with flowers, which are carried on the heads by the women folk in a
procession. Cooked rice is also taken in highly polished brass vessels or
in clay pots decorated with neem leaves, which are carried by women on
their heads to the local goddess while the men accompany by playing drums.
Women colourfully dressed dance balancing pots to the rhythmic beats and
tunes in praise of the village deity Mahankali. Male dancers called the "Potharajus'
follow the female dancers, who is believed to be the protector of the
village.
It is celebrated with aplomb in the twin cities of
Hyderabad and
Secunderabad. During this festival, Sree Jagadambika temple atop the
Golconda Fort
draws large number of devotees from neighbouring districts. Muslim
emperors also celebrated this festival by offering prayers in this temple
such was the popularity of this festival. The State government also
performs puja officially, on behalf of the people. Thus, Bonalu is a
festival of offering and families share the offering among their members.
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