Bonalu
Bonalu is a Hindu festival celebrated in the Telangana region, particularly in the city of Hyderabad. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Mahakali and is observed during the month of Ashadha (July-August) according to the Hindu calendar.
Etymology[edit | edit source]
The term "Bonalu" is derived from the word "Bhojanalu," which means meals or a feast in Telugu. The festival involves offering meals to the goddess as a form of thanksgiving.
History[edit | edit source]
Bonalu is believed to have originated in the 18th century when a plague broke out in the region. The people of Hyderabad prayed to the goddess Mahakali for relief from the epidemic, and when the plague subsided, they started celebrating Bonalu as a mark of gratitude.
Celebrations[edit | edit source]
The festival is marked by various rituals and customs. Women prepare special meals, which are offered to the goddess in decorated pots. These pots, known as "Bonam," are carried on the heads of women in a procession to the temple. The offerings typically include rice cooked with milk and jaggery, along with curd and sugar.
Pothuraju[edit | edit source]
A significant feature of the Bonalu festival is the presence of Pothuraju, a male guardian who is considered the brother of the goddess. Pothuraju leads the procession, dancing to the beats of drums and applying turmeric on his body.
Ghatam[edit | edit source]
Another important aspect of the festival is the "Ghatam," a copper pot decorated with a small deity, which is carried by a priest. The Ghatam is taken in a procession through the streets, accompanied by music and dance.
Temples[edit | edit source]
Several temples in Hyderabad and Secunderabad are central to the Bonalu celebrations. Some of the prominent temples include:
Significance[edit | edit source]
Bonalu is not just a religious festival but also a cultural event that brings communities together. It is a time for family reunions, social gatherings, and communal harmony.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
Categories[edit | edit source]
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