HYDERABAD: A euphoric Bonalu touch will be a prominent feature of the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the famed Akkanna Madonna temple at Hari Bowli, Shah Ali Banda, in the Old City of Hyderabad here on Sunday. Thousands of devotees are expected to visit the temple, which is performing special pujas to commemorate the milestone.
Women have been taking part in ‘Kunkumarchana’ slated for five Ashadam Fridays.
G. Pratusha from Gowlipura said, “This year Bonalu comes as a special incentive. We have been attending ‘Kunkumarchana’. Two days of Bonalu will mean an exciting time for family gatherings.”
Organising secretary S.P. Kranthi Kumar said, “This historic temple reflects the rich heritage of Hyderabad. A photo exhibition, being organised concurrently, will trace the origins and evolution of the temple.”
A brief history of the temple is that during the reign of King Tanasha in the 17th century, two brothers Akkanna and Madanna were in key positions in the government. While the former was the commander-in-chief, Madanna was the prime minister. After performing puja to the deity, they would take a rest in the devdi housing the temple.
This was their daily ritual while proceeding to Golconda from their house in Mankhal Maheswaram. According to historians, people knew of the existence of the Mahankali temple, though it was not open to the general public.
It was during the Police Action in September 1948 that the ancient temple was found after the devdi’s wall was broken. The owner of the devdi Mir Mohammed Anwar Ali Khaja of Balda (city) opened the temple gates so that people could worship there. They found the idol of the goddess, a jyoti, puja material, some holy books, old leaves and cradles inside.
The Khaji Balda is where permission was granted for the construction of the Mahankali temple. He not only gifted land but also donated money.
Ever since then Bonalu and Mahankali Jatara are being celebrated with religious fervour in the month of Ashadam.
