The vibrant and traditional Bonalu festival in Telangana will begin on June 26, 2025, according to the schedule announced by the state’s Endowments Department. This annual event, deeply rooted in local culture, will unfold over several weeks at major temples across Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
The first celebration will take place at the Sri Jagadambika Ammavari Temple inside the historic Golconda Fort. Devotees will offer the ceremonial golden bonam on Thursday, June 26, marking the start of the Ashada month’s spiritual rituals.
During Ashada, rituals are held every Sunday and Thursday. Nine bonams will be offered throughout the season, each on a specific date:
– 1st Bonam – June 26 (Thursday)
– 2nd Bonam – June 29 (Sunday)
– 3rd Bonam – July 3 (Thursday)
– 4th Bonam – July 6 (Sunday)
– 5th Bonam – July 10 (Thursday)
– 6th Bonam – July 13 (Sunday)
– 7th Bonam – July 17 (Thursday)
– 8th Bonam – July 20 (Sunday)
– 9th Bonam – July 24 (Thursday)
Two of the biggest events in the festival will follow. The Bonalu at Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad is scheduled for July 13 (Sunday). Another grand celebration will be held at the Simhavahini Ammavari Temple in Lal Darwaza on July 20 (Sunday), marking the final major bonam of the season.
Bonalu is one of Telangana’s most cherished festivals, celebrated especially during the Ashadam month. Devotees prepare traditional rice dishes, carry them in decorated pots on their heads, and offer them to the Goddess Mahankali. These offerings are accompanied by lively processions, drum beats, and folk performances that bring neighborhoods to life.
Each year, the Hyderabad Bonalu starts on the first Thursday or Sunday of Ashadam. The festivities begin at Golconda Fort and end with the grand events in Lal Darwaza and Secunderabad, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors.
