Bonalu is an annual festival observed in Telangana, with large events in Hyderabad and Secunderabad honoring Goddess Mahakali.
Devotees carry Bonam, adorned pots full of boiled rice, jaggery, curd, and neem leaves, on their heads to thank Goddess Mahakali for her blessings. The festival expresses belief that the Goddess will protect her believers from harm and deliver prosperity to everybody.
If you wish to celebrate Bonalu festival even if you cannot visit in person, Onlinetemple provides the convenience of booking Bonalu Pooja services online.
Why Do We Celebrate Bonalu? (History & Significant)
Bonalu originated in the 18th century, following a severe plague in Hyderabad. Legend has it that soldiers from Telangana, who were stationed in Ujjain at the time, prayed fervently to Goddess Mahakali for protection. They vowed to honor her if their families back home were spared from the disease. Miraculously, when the plague subsided, their loved ones survived—and thus began the tradition of Bonalu as a thanksgiving offering to the goddess.
Today, Bonalu is not just a religious event but a significant part of Telangana’s identity, symbolizing gratitude, protection, and devotion to Mahakali.
Bonalu Festival 2025 Dates
Below we have a complete Bonalu 2025 schedule:
- 1st Bonam – Thursday, June 26
- 2nd Bonam – Sunday, June 29
- 3rd Bonam – Thursday, July 3
- 4th Bonam – Sunday, July 6
- 5th Bonam – Thursday, July 10
- 6th Bonam – Sunday, July 13
- 7th Bonam – Thursday, July 17
- 8th Bonam – Sunday, July 20
- 9th Bonam – Thursday, July 24
Rituals and Traditions of Bonalu Festival
Bonam Offering
The central ritual consists of women carrying bonum on their heads – a brass utensil that is filled with cooked rice, jaggery, curd and neem leaves, topped with a lamp. It represents the devotion of the people and is presented at Mahakali temples throughout Telangana.
Onlinetemple also offers online Bonalu Pooja booking services, helping devotees make their offerings remotely if they cannot travel.
Potharaju Procession
The procession is led by Potharaju, who is believed to be the brother of the Goddess. Dressed in a red dhoti, covered in turmeric, and wearing bells around waist, he moves fervently, whipping himself to clear the path for the devotees.
Ghatam Procession
In grand processions, the Ghatam—a decorated pot seen as the Goddess—is carried while drums and folk dancers lead the way. The final step of the festival is immersing the Ghatam in water.
Thottela & Rangam (Oracle Ritual)
Colorful paper structures called Thottela are offered at temples. During Rangam, devotees think a female oracle gets taken over by the Goddess. She then tells the community what’s going to happen in the future.
Where is Bonalu Festival Celebrated in Telangana?
Bonalu celebrations are mainly seen in Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and nearby Telangana locations. Some key temples are:
- Ujjaini Mahakali Temple, Secunderabad – Recognized for its grand procession and the traditional Rangam ritual.
- Golconda Fort Temple Hyderabad – Kicks off the festival with early Bonalu events.
- Balkampet Yellamma Temple Hyderabad – Stands out for huge Bonam gifts and cultural shows.
- Lal Darwaza Temple, Old City Hyderabad – Holds the big concluding festivities.
Tourists can explore these temples using local ways to get around. They can hop on MMTS trains, city buses, or grab cabs to move between the twin cities.
Bonalu Traditions: Clothing, Music, and Festive Foods
Women wore bright sarees, adorned with turmeric, vermillion, and glass bangles. The folk music, drum beats, and the energetic dance of Potharaju have come together to create an electrifying atmosphere. The air carries the fragrance of pulihora (tamarind rice), payasam (sweet pudding) and other festival sweets that were offered as the prasad to the community feast.
Travel Tips for Bonalu Festival
- Best Time to Visit:
Plan your trip for Sundays in July 2025 (Ashada Masam), when the grandest processions and temple celebrations occur.
- Reaching Hyderabad:
Hyderabad is well-connected by flights, trains, and buses from major Indian cities. Book tickets early—this is a peak travel period!
- Local Transport:
- MMTS trains (cheap & efficient)
- Buses (TSRTC runs special routes)
- Cabs (Ola/Uber or prepaid autos)
- Avoid driving—roads near temples get extremely crowded.
- Where to Stay:
Opt for budget-friendly hotels or homestays in:
- Secunderabad (near Ujjaini Mahankali Temple)
- Balkampet (close to key festival sites)
- Old City
- Pro Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk a lot in crowds.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly, follow temple rules, and avoid disrupting rituals.
Bonalu Festival FAQs
Q: What is Bonalu Festival?
A: Bonalu Festival is a Telangana-based Hindu festival honoring Goddess Mahakali, where devotees offer Bonam decorated pots.
Q: When is Bonalu Festival in 2025?
A: Bonalu 2025 celebrations are set for the Sundays of Ashada Masam in July.
Q: Why is Bonalu celebrated in Telangana?
A: It originated as a thanksgiving to Goddess Mahakali for saving Hyderabad from plague in the 18th century.
Q: How can I participate in Bonalu rituals?
A: You can participate by offering Bonam at the temple, joining processions, and witnessing the Potharaju and Ghatam rituals.
Conclusion
Bonalu festival 2025 in Telangana brings people together with exciting processions, powerful rituals, and happy celebrations.
👉 If you are unable to go to the temples, Onlinetemple can perform Bonalu Pooja for you. Book you special pooja online!