Ashada Bonalu Celebrated at Lal Darwaza with 2,400 Police Personnel Deployed

The Ashada Bonalu festival unfolded across Hyderabad on Sunday, bringing vibrant celebrations and devotional music to the Old City, particularly at the Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple in Lal Darwaza. Thousands of devotees took part in processions featuring drums, turmeric, vermilion, neem leaves, and flowers, while heavy security measures were enforced across key festival locations.

Hyderabad Commissioner of Police V.C. Sajjanar inspected security arrangements at the Lal Darwaza temple and offered prayers to the deity during the event. He announced that robust security measures had been established for a 48-hour period in and around the temple premises to ensure public safety during the peak of the festival.

Around 2,400 police personnel were deployed in two shifts for bandobast duties to manage the large crowds. In addition, SHE Teams and specialized crime teams were pressed into service, alongside static pickets positioned at temples to protect visiting worshippers.

Surveillance was heightened using AI-enabled cameras designed to identify suspected thieves and chain-snatchers. Drones and additional CCTV cameras were installed at the Lal Darwaza temple and along designated procession routes. A dedicated control room established near Union Bank at Lal Darwaza continuously monitored all festive arrangements. Sajjanar stated that the celebrations progressed peacefully with the cooperation of devotees.

While major festival sites drew massive gatherings, several shops across Hyderabad remained shut and traffic on usually busy roads was unusually light on Sunday. However, local meat markets saw a significant rush. Narender, a chicken shop owner in Secunderabad’s Alwal, reported that outlets ran short of stock by evening as families gathered to prepare festive meals.

Residents from across the metropolitan area participated in the festivities. A devotee from Manikonda observed that the festival slowed down the city's usual traffic and noise as people joined the processions. Ravi Pulakesi, a resident of Marredpally, described the day as a cherished neighbourhood tradition where families decorate bonam pots, visit temples, and meet relatives.