Hyderabad: As a part of the Ashada Bonalu festival, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka on behalf of the State Government, offered Pattu Vasthralu (silken robes) to the historic Lal Darwaja Simha Vahini Mahankali Ammavari temple on Sunday and led special prayers. The Deputy Chief Minister extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Ashada Bonalu.

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka reiterated that the Telangana government has allocated a Rs 1,290 crore package for temple development across the state.

Bonalu: A Celebration of Telangana's Cultural Heritage 

The Bonalu festival, a vibrant tradition honoring the goddess Mahankali, commenced with rituals at Golconda Fort and will continue across Hyderabad, culminating at the Lal Darwaja temple. “Bonalu is not just a festival, it is the soul of Telangana's culture.We are committed to preserving these traditions that have been practised for generations," said Vikramarka, who offered silk robes to the deity on behalf of the state government.

The government has allocated a dedicated Rs 20 crore fund for Bonalu festivities in Hyderabad from the Rs 1,290 crore allocation from the Common Good Fund. Also, the fund will support renovations and upgrades at temples across the state. It will improve security, sanitation, and crowd management. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has pledged to develop the premises around the Lal Darwaja Mahankali temple, Vikramarka added.

Prayers for Prosperity

During the rituals, the Deputy Chief Minister offered special prayers. He sought blessings for the welfare of Telangana's citizens, peace and harmony in society, and the state's ongoing development. “The goddess' blessings will guide Telangana's progress,” Vikramarka stated, concluding the ceremony.