Historic Akkanna Madanna Ghatam procession marks Bonalu finale in Hyderabad

The historic Akkanna Madanna Mahankali Temple in the Old City came alive on Monday as the sacred Ghatam procession was taken out, marking the culmination of the month-long Ashada Bonalu festivities in Hyderabad. As the streets echoed with the songs of Maisamma echoing from small and big temples, women carried the offerings to the goddess even into late evening.

Earlier, Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar flagged off the procession after offering prayers at the temple in Haribowli. The procession led by a decorated elephant passed through Gowlipura, Lal Darwaza and Shalibanda before concluding at Nayapul.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Sajjanar recalled the temple’s historical significance and prayed for the continued protection, health and prosperity of Hyderabad’s people. He said the city’s Bonalu celebrations, held at major shrines including Golconda, Balkampet, Ujjaini Mahankali and Lal Darwaza, had concluded peacefully.

The police had made elaborate security and traffic arrangements in coordination with civic and other government departments to facilitate the movement of devotees and prevent any untoward incidents.

The commissioner thanked temple committees, festival organisers, government departments and devotees for their cooperation during the celebrations. He also appreciated police personnel for working round the clock to maintain law and order throughout the festival.

Additional Commissioners of Police M. Srinivas and Tafseer Iqbal, DCP Task Force Vaibhav Gaikwad, DCP Charminar Zone Khare Kiran Prabhakar and DCP CAR Headquarters R. Venkateswarlu, along with members of the Akkanna Madanna Temple Committee and other officials, attended the procession.