The Ainavolu Mallikarjuna Swamy fair in Hanamkonda has become a lively spiritual and cultural event. Devotees flock to the fair, which features mesmerizing performances by Shiva-Shakti devotees and traditional dancers like Joginis. One of the main attractions is the trance-filled dances of devotees carrying “Bonalu,” which left the audience awestruck.
The fair, which started on Sunday with a Ganesh puja and flag-hoisting ceremony, is a four-day celebration. By the second day on Monday, thousands of devotees had already gathered at the temple, transforming the area into a bustling sea of worshippers. Known for its folk traditions, the festival continues to attract large crowds throughout its duration.
To accommodate the massive influx of visitors, the temple committee made thorough arrangements. They set up queue lines, shaded rest areas, drinking water facilities, sanitation, and even hot water for bathing due to the winter chill. Dressing rooms for women and decorative lighting around the temple added to the convenience and festive atmosphere. Both temporary and permanent setups were implemented to manage the event efficiently.
Various departments pitched in to ensure the fair ran smoothly. Transco deployed 30 staff members to provide uninterrupted power supply, while the Irrigation department assigned 45 employees to handle drinking water needs. Medical teams from the Ainavolu PHC were on standby 24/7 to offer assistance to devotees. Additionally, RTC arranged special transportation services connecting Ainavolu to cities like Hyderabad, Hanamkonda, Warangal, Kazipet, Komuravelli, and Vemulawada.
Security was also a top priority, with 11 Circle Inspectors, 27 Sub-Inspectors, and 369 personnel deployed to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents. Key officials, including Temple Festival Officer Gauri Shankar, Executive Officer Addanki Nageswara Rao, and DCP Puligilla Ravinder, worked tirelessly to ensure the fair proceeded without any obstacles.
The Ainavolu Mallikarjuna Swamy fair continues to be a cherished tradition, blending spiritual devotion with vibrant cultural expressions, making it a memorable experience for all who attend.
