State to Host Bonalu Handicrafts Exhibition at HMDA Grounds From July 16

HYDERABAD — The Telangana state government will launch a State-level Handicrafts Exhibition-cum-Sale at the HMDA Grounds, located beside the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar statue in Hyderabad, starting July 16, 2026. Announced by Backward Classes Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, the exhibition is organized as part of the Ashada Bonalu Mahotsavams to provide a single venue for the public to purchase traditional festival items and support local artisans.

The event is being organized by the Rural Development Department under the aegis of SERP. It coincides with the commencement of the annual Bonalu festivities on July 16, 2026, which will begin at the Sri Jagadamba Mahankali Temple at the historic Golconda Fort.

According to Minister Prabhakar, the state government is making elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and grand conduct of the festival. This year, the government plans to set up a larger number of exhibition stalls compared to last year. This expansion aims to provide more traditional state artisans with an opportunity to showcase their products, reach buyers directly, and earn a livelihood.

The exhibition will gather various traditional craftsmen from across Telangana. Participating artisans will include potters, blacksmiths, carpenters, Vishwabrahmins, Padmashali weavers, goldsmiths, stone sculptors, basket makers, leather artisans, and other traditional craftspeople.

Visitors to the HMDA Grounds will be able to purchase a wide variety of Bonalu-related items directly from these creators. Available products will include clay Bonam pots, earthen lamps, bamboo baskets, brass and copper vessels, kalashams, bells, and pooja materials.

Additionally, the stalls will feature flower garlands, toranams, Bonam decoration items, bangles, bead ornaments, whips and anklets used by Pothuraju, traditional musical instruments such as the dappu and dhol, and wooden pooja platforms.

Minister Ponnam Prabhakar emphasized that all kinds of traditional items required for the Bonalu festival will be available to the public at this single venue, helping preserve cultural practices while boosting the local rural economy.