Hyderabad: The state festival of Ashada Masam Bonalu will commence on July 16 with the traditional offering of the first ‘Bonam’ to Goddess Shri Jagadambika Ammavaru at the historic Golconda Fort. The celebrations will continue through August 13, attracting lakhs of devotees from across Telangana and neighbouring states.

A coordination meeting was held at the Jagadambika Ammavari Temple inside Golconda Fort under the leadership of Endowments Minister Konda Surekha to review arrangements for the festival. The Minister directed officials from various departments to work in close coordination and ensure a smooth and safe experience for devotees.

Highlighting the historical importance of Golconda Bonalu, Surekha said it is a long-standing tradition to offer the first Bonam to Goddess Jagadambika Mahankali during the Ashada Bonalu celebrations. She instructed officials to complete all preparations well in advance for key events, including the Bonam offering, Thottelu procession, chariot procession and Metla Puja.

The Minister directed authorities to focus on traffic regulation, parking facilities, queue management, barricading, drinking water supply, sanitation, electricity arrangements, medical services, fire safety and special bus services.

Officials were instructed to ensure cleanliness in and around the temple premises, provide mobile toilets, medical camps, 108 ambulance services and adequate drinking water points. Departments were also asked to improve roads, staircases, lighting facilities, signage and temporary sheds inside the Fort area for the convenience of devotees.

Surekha stressed that there should be no compromise on the safety and comfort of devotees. She directed officials to remain alert, display awareness posters featuring photographs of suspects and take necessary security measures during the celebrations.

She also instructed the Electricity Department to ensure safe wiring arrangements and asked GHMC officials to complete civic works within the stipulated timelines.

Describing Golconda Bonalu as a symbol of Telangana’s culture and traditions, the Minister said the government was committed to providing the best possible facilities for devotees. She, along with officials and public representatives, unveiled the Ashada Bonalu festival poster and brochure.