Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy offered prayers at the Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad on Sunday as part of the annual Bonalu festivities.

The Chief Minister presented pattu vastralu (silk robes) to Goddess Mahankali and performed special prayers at the temple. He was accompanied by Endowments Minister Konda Surekha, Women and Child Welfare Minister Danasari Anasuya Seethakka and other Congress leaders.

Several Ministers, political leaders and senior officials visited the temple throughout the day to offer prayers during the festivities. Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, who offered prayers at the temple, said Bonalu was an integral part of Telangana’s traditions and culture. He prayed for the prosperity of the State, good rains, abundant crops, and the health and well-being of its people.

Endowments Minister Konda Surekha said the Ujjaini Mahankali Bonalu had a long-standing tradition and drew a large number of devotees every year. She said devotees visiting the temple pray for the well-being of their families and the State. She also prayed for good rains, better agricultural yields, the welfare of farmers and prosperity across Telangana.

BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao, accompanied by Sanathnagar MLA Talasani Srinivas Yadav, also visited the temple and offered prayers to the goddess. Speaking after the visit, Mr. Rao said the BRS government led by former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao declared Bonalu an official State festival after the formation of Telangana and allocated funds to temple committees for conducting the celebrations. He said he prayed to Goddess Mahankali for abundant rainfall, prosperity for farmers and the happiness and well-being of people across the State.

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar was among the senior officials who visited the temple and offered prayers.