Secunderabad Rangam Oracle Warns Of Floods, Demands New Mahankali Idol In 6 Months
The annual Rangam oracle ritual at the Ujjaini Mahankali temple in Secunderabad was marked by sombre warnings on Monday, as temple oracle Mathangi Swarnalatha predicted heavy floods, major fire accidents, and potential loss of lives across Telangana. Standing atop a traditional earthen pot at the historic shrine in Secunderabad, Swarnalatha cautioned that while abundant rainfall is expected this year, it could lead to severe flooding, and warned temple authorities to consecrate a new idol of Goddess Mahankali within six months.
Expressing deep anger and sadness over unfulfilled promises, Swarnalatha stated that devotees and temple management had repeatedly delayed installing the new idol. She warned that failure to complete the consecration within the six-month timeframe could bring grave consequences to the state. When priests mentioned that certain individuals were obstructing the installation, she declared that the Goddess would deal with them directly.
During the prophecy, the oracle also lamenting the erosion of moral values, rising arrogance, and disrespect among the younger generation toward their parents. She urged the gathering to remain humble, honour their parents, and fulfil their social responsibilities to maintain divine blessings.
In response to the oracle's demands regarding the idol, district in-charge minister Ponnam Prabhakar announced that the Endowments principal secretary would constitute a committee to examine the proposal. The state government plans to take a final decision after reviewing the committee's findings.
Minister Prabhakar also addressed demands raised by representatives of the Jogini community, who requested official identity cards for temple darshan and recognition. He highlighted that the Cabinet had already decided to grant the Jogini community representation in civic bodies and offer them employment opportunities.
The ritual formed a key part of the traditional Bonalu celebrations at the temple. Earlier on Monday, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and his wife Janaki offered prayers at the shrine, presenting Bonam and Pattu Vastralu to the presiding deity while praying for the state's peace and prosperity.
Following the conclusion of the Rangam, idols of the Goddess were carried in a grand procession on a caparisoned elephant through General Bazaar, RP Road, and adjoining areas of Secunderabad, concluding the two-day festival.
