This year, the Kalyanam was celebrated on July 9, followed by the Rathotsavam on July 10, and the Bonalu festival on July 28.

The Balkampet Yellamma Thalli Kalyanam, an important annual festival, took place today, July 9, 2024, at the famous Balkampet Yellamma temple in Hyderabad. This divine wedding ceremony celebrates the union of Mother Goddess Yellamma (Renuka Devi or Jala Durga) with Bhagavan Mahadeva Shiva. The event is a key part of the Ashada month festivities, which is considered highly auspicious in the Hindu Telugu calendar.

importance and History

The Balkampet Yellamma Temple, dating back to the early 20th century, is renowned for its unique idol positioned about 10 feet below ground level and surrounded by water. The temple is a pivotal spiritual center, and its deity is believed to grant wishes and alleviate health issues. The temple’s historical importance and mystical aura make it a vital yatra.

Ashada Masam Festivities

The Kalyanam is conducted during Ashada Masam, an auspicious month in the Hindu Telugu calendar. This year, the Kalyanam was celebrated on July 9, 2024. The temple was adorned with flowers and lights, creating a festive atmosphere. The rituals included offering ‘pattu vastralu’ (silk clothes) to the goddess, presented by the State Government, and various offerings by the devotees.

Join thousands of devotees in these rich cultural and spiritual events, showcasing the heritage of Telangana.

Rathotsavam and Community Participation

Following the Kalyanam, the Rathotsavam (chariot festival) will be held on July 10, 2024. This event features a grand procession with the deity’s idol, where devotees offer sarees, bangles, beauty products, and milk pots decorated with neem leaves. The festival sees a massive turnout, with special arrangements made by the government for transportation, security, and road maintenance.

Bonalu Festival at Balkampet Yellamma Temple

The Bonalu festival, a major celebration in Telangana, is also observed at the Balkampet Yellamma Temple. In 2024, the Bonalu at this temple will be celebrated on July 07 to July 28. Bonalu is marked by offering ‘Bonam’ (a meal) to the goddess, symbolizing the thanksgiving for fulfilling vows. The festival begins at the Golconda Fort and continues across various temples in Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

Bonalu includes several key rituals such as:

  1. Ghatam: The ceremonial procession carrying the festival’s pot.
  2. Bonam Offering: Women carry decorated pots containing food, which is offered to the deity.
  3. Pothuraju Dance: A dance performed by a male relative of the women offering Bonam, representing the goddess’s brother.
  4. Rangam: A forecasting ritual where a woman possessed by the spirit of the goddess foretells the future.
  5. Immersion: The culmination of the festival with the immersion of the Ghatam in water.

The festival signifies the return of the goddess to her maternal home during Ashada Masam, where devotees worship her with great devotion and celebrate her presence in their lives.

“Bonalu Festival 2024: Celebrating Telangana’s Devotion to Goddess Mahakali in Hyderabad