Liquor outlets in Secunderabad to shut from July 13-15 during Bonalu Festival

Hyderabad: The Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad City, C.V. Anand, has issued an order under Section 20 of the Telangana Excise Act, directing the closure of Toddy/Wine Shops, including Bars in Restaurants (excluding Bars in Star Hotels and Registered Clubs), from 6:00 AM on July 13 to 6:00 AM on July 15, 2025, in view of the "Sree Ujjaini Mahankali Jathara" (Bonalu Festival) in Secunderabad. The decision aims to maintain public peace and safety during the festival.

The closure will apply to establishments within the jurisdiction of the following police stations in the North, East, and Central Zones of Hyderabad. In the Central Zone, the order will affect the Gandhi Nagar Police Station. In the East Zone, it will apply to the Chilkalguda, Lalaguda, and Warasiguda Police Stations. In the North Zone, affected police stations include Begumpet, Gopalpuram, Tukaramgate, Marredpally, Mahankali, Ramgopalpet, and Market Police Stations.

Bonalu, a traditional Hindu festival dedicated to the Goddess Mahakali, is celebrated annually in Telangana, particularly in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The festival, held during the Ashada Masam, involves special prayers and rituals performed to honor the Goddess. One of the key traditions is the offering of 'Bonam,' which consists of a pot filled with rice, milk, and jaggery, decorated with neem leaves, turmeric, vermilion, and a lit lamp. The offering is a symbol of thanksgiving to the Goddess for fulfilling vows.

The closure of bars and toddy shops during this period is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and orderly conduct of the festival, allowing the celebrations to proceed smoothly.