Ghatam Procession From Akkanna Madanna Temple Marks Bonalu Culmination

The month-long Ashada Bonalu festivities across Hyderabad came to a peaceful culmination on Monday as the sacred Ghatam procession was taken out from the historic Akkanna Madanna Mahankali Temple in Haribowli in the Old City. Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar offered prayers at the Haribowli shrine before officially flagging off the annual procession.

Led by a decorated elephant, the colourful procession made its way through several key neighborhoods, passing through Gowlipura, Lal Darwaza, and Shalibanda before finally concluding at Nayapul. As the procession moved through the streets, devotional songs dedicated to Maisamma echoed from both small and big temples throughout the locality, and women continued carrying traditional offerings to the goddess late into the evening.

Addressing those present at the event, Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar recalled the rich historical significance of the Akkanna Madanna Mahankali Temple and prayed for the ongoing protection, health, and prosperity of the residents of Hyderabad. He noted that the citywide Bonalu celebrations, which took place across major shrines including Golconda, Balkampet, Ujjaini Mahankali, and Lal Darwaza, concluded peacefully without any disruptions.

In order to facilitate the movement of large crowds of devotees and prevent any untoward incidents during the procession, the police department had put in place elaborate security measures and traffic arrangements. These arrangements were executed in close coordination with civic authorities and various other government departments.

The police commissioner extended his appreciation and thanked temple committees, festival organisers, government departments, and the devotees for their full cooperation throughout the festival. He also specially recognized the dedicated efforts of police personnel who worked round the clock across the city to enforce law and order during the entire duration of the Bonalu festivities.

The procession was attended by several high-ranking police officers and key dignitaries. Among those present alongside temple committee members and other officials were 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.