Politicos jazz up Bonalu festivities

Lakhs of devotees gathered under canopies of glittering lights strung in every part of the city amidst much pomp and grandeur. This year’s Bonalu festival had an extra zing and glitter, thanks to ambitious politicians who pumped in money to placate the electorate before the GHMC elections scheduled for August. It is estimated that over Rs 1.4 crore was spent for the Bonalu celebrations this year by all temples in and around the city.
It was evident that leaders eyeing the coveted post of Mayor felt that the Bonalu festival was the right opportunity to enhance their reputation and win the hearts of locals. And the easiest way to do this was to give huge donations and ensure people got to know about it.
The major chunk of donations was made by newly elected leaders who wanted to make a ‘thanksgiving’ gesture. Businessmen and generous locals too made donations ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 30,000. Of course, the sums donated by the devotees also contributed in making the festival a grand success.
Thanks to this, big temples in the city were able to spend around Rs 15-20 lakh for the festival. Even small temples did not hesitate to spend lavishly as there was no paucity of funds.
Apart from donating, many devotees came forward to bear the expenditure of flower decorations, light settings and other arrangements. Compared to last year, the turnout was also higher at the century-old Ujjaini Mahankali temple, Golconda Kali temple, Lal Darwaza temple, Akkanna Madanna Mahankali mandir, Mahankali temple at Marredpally and other shrines.
“We were surprised with the turnout,” says Katari Mahesh Kumar, trustee of the Ujjaini Mahankali temple. “Around 12 lakh people participated this year.”
Senior politicos admit that the GHMC elections might have prompted local leaders to participate in the Bonalu festival with much vigour. “I was surprised with the arrangements at temples in Marredpally and other areas,” says former MLA, G. Sayanna. “Organisers collected heavy donations from leaders this time.”
In fact, temples like the Sri Kanakadurga Pochamma temple were renovated with the support of leaders. “We no longer have to worry about funds since people voluntarily donate,” said B. Suresh, organiser of the festival.