Secunderabad’s Mahankali Temple Prepares for Grand Bonalu Festival
With over a million devotees anticipated for the darshan of Goddess Mahankali, the historic Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad is fully prepared for the annual Sri Ujjaini Mahankali Bonalu festival. This two-day event, held on Sunday and Monday, attracts devotees from across Telangana and neighboring states come to celebrate Mahankali Bonalu 2024.
Extensive Security Measures in Place for Bonalu Festival
To ensure the safety and smooth flow of the estimated 10 lakh devotees, more than 1,500 police personnel will be on duty. Six queue lines have been established, and emergency exits are planned every 60 feet along the barricades. This arrangement aims to manage the large crowds and provide a stress-free darshan experience. In case of emergencies, a clear passage will be maintained for ambulances and fire equipment.
Special Arrangements for Devotees Mahankali Bonalu 2024
Between 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM, ‘jogins’ will be granted direct access to the temple, with a maximum of five individuals allowed to accompany devotees carrying ‘bonam’. This arrangement ensures that traditional rituals can be observed without hindrance.
Comprehensive Surveillance and Control
Over 100 CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor major routes, processions, and the temple surroundings. The entire temple premises are under constant surveillance to ensure precise monitoring and security. A dedicated joint control room will operate round-the-clock to coordinate responses to any emergencies or incidents, facilitating prompt action and assistance.
Guidelines for Processions and Public Safety
Organizers of the ‘Palaharam Bandi’ processions must obtain mandatory police permission. The use of DJs or loudspeakers is strictly prohibited to maintain the solemnity of the rituals. All processions must conclude by 12 noon on Monday. Sufficient crime teams and ‘She teams’ will be present at the venue to ensure public safety, especially for women and children.
Security Review by City Police Commissioner
On Friday, City Police Commissioner K. Srinivasa Reddy reviewed the security and traffic arrangements for the Bonalu festival at Sri Simhavahini Mahankali and Akkanna Madanna temples in the old city. He assured that coordinated efforts with other government departments would ensure no inconvenience to the devotees.
Record Turnout at Ujjaini Mahankali Temple
The 100-year-old Ujjaini Mahankali Temple witnessed an unprecedented turnout on Sunday, with lakhs of devotees participating in the annual Ashada Bonalu Jatara. According to the temple’s executive officer, Manohar Reddy, over eight lakh devotees visited the temple and offered Bonams, adhering to tradition.
Devotional Fervor Among Women Devotees
Numerous women devotees waited in long queues to offer their prayers, seeking good health, wealth, and an end to the pandemic. The key roads leading to the Ujjaini Mahankali Temple, including Paradise Junction, YMCA Road, St. Johns Rotary, Patny, Park Lane, and General Bazar, were bustling with women dressed in vibrant colors. Hundreds of Potharajus danced to the beat of drums, donning traditional attire, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The Bonalu festival at Secunderabad’s Mahankali Temple remains a significant cultural and religious event, drawing immense participation and showcasing the rich traditions of the region.
