In Hyderabad, temple committees are still waiting for government funds weeks after the Bonalu festival ended. These funds were promised by the government for festival arrangements, but delays have occurred.
The state government had approved a budget of Rs 20 crore for temples to host Bonalu, celebrated from June 26 to July 21. Despite this, many smaller temples have not received their share.
Committee members are frustrated, frequently visiting offices to ask when the money will be deposited. One member, Sathish (name changed), stated that officials from the Endowments department have not sent the necessary applications to the district collector for payment approval.
Every year, thousands of temples in Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Ranga Reddy District apply for these funds. This year, many applications remain unprocessed, and temple representatives receive no clear answers from department officials.
Another committee member, Ravi Kumar, mentioned that they usually receive cheques without issue. He recalls that in previous years, official Rama Krishna Rao helped ensure timely fund distribution based on recommendations. However, this year, the process is significantly delayed.
Attempts by a Hans News Service reporter to reach the responsible officials have so far been unsuccessful.
