Bonnalu is a festival celebrated in the month of July-August also known as the Aashadam Masam.

This festival is celebrated very grandly in the state of Andhra Pradesh, especially in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabd.

Goddess Mahakali is honoured and praised on this day. Centuries ago a great plague hit the city of hyderabad so in order to appease the Gods, offerings were being made and it is believed that Goddess Mahakali came to the rescue of the people an so in thanksgiving of this favor, bonalu is celebrated every year.

Bonalu is derived from the word “ Bhojanalu” which mean offerings. This festival is not celebrated on a single day by the entire city but is celebrated on different days by various parts of the city. On the particular day , in the area in which this festival is being celebrated, the roads will be completely blocked with lots of women, men and children who are dressed up very colorfully.It is very difficult for vehicles to move around on the roads.

Vendors will block the road with toys, food and clothes. Loud music in honor Of Goddess Mahakali is played loudly in the particular area. The whole area wears on a festive look.

A procession is carried on to the temple. Women balancing several pots on their head, dance praising Goddess Mahakali. These pots contain food offerings of cooked rice, water and milk. Their group s followed by a “Pothraju”- a man whose whole body is colored with turmeric paste and who has a red tilak on his forehead. He carries a whip in his hand and keeps whipping himself and dancing in a trance. The pothraju is believed to be the initiator of festivals and the protector of the village.

People flock in hundreds to see the pothraju dance. It is believed that the Goddess herself comes and touches him.

The festive nature continues through out the day. The mahakali temples in the city are beautifully lighted and decorated.

If present in hyderabad during this festive season do not forget to witness the customs of this festival.