In Hyderabad, the Sri Sri Sri Matha Katta Maisamma Temple at Sunnam Cheruvu is buzzing with excitement as the Bonalu festival unfolds. Many devotees, especially women from Borabanda, Allapur, Swaraj Nagar, and nearby areas, are participating. They bring traditional bonam offerings to honor the goddess.
The history of this temple is deeply connected to Sunnam Cheruvu, a lake dating back to the Nizam era. Originally, a simple stone was placed by the lake as a symbol of the deity, known as Katta Maisamma. This act established the goddess as the guardian of the lake, emphasizing her role in protecting the community’s essential water source. The tradition underscores the community’s respect for the goddess’s spiritual and ecological significance.
The temple took its present form in 2000, thanks to Juloori Raghuraj Goud, who became its custodian. He, along with his wife Juloori Sandhya Rani and family, has actively managed the temple’s daily rituals and organized major festivals like Bonalu. Their dedication is notable, as they allocate 20% of their earnings to support these festivals, ensuring they continue without outside help.
During the festival, the atmosphere at Sunnam Cheruvu is vibrant and full of faith. Women, dressed in traditional clothes, carry bonam pots filled with rice, jaggery, and curd as offerings. The event features rhythmic drumming and rituals, creating a lively and devout environment. The Juloori family’s tireless dedication helps sustain and grow this cherished cultural and religious tradition, drawing many to seek blessings from Katta Maisamma.
