“In Telangana, Shiva Shakthis don’t just take part in Bonalu. We lead the rituals—with the ghatam on our heads.

During Ashada Masam, we carry the ghatam to the temples across Hyderabad—Golconda Mahankali Mandir, Balkampet Yellamma Pochamma, Ujjaini Mahankali Ammavaru in Secunderabad, Lal Darwaza Sri Simhavahini Ammavaru, and Akkanna Madanna Mahankali. Each jatara has its own day, its own customs. You’ll hear the dappu, see Bonam processions.

The ghatam holds cooked rice mixed with jaggery, sometimes milk or curd, placed in a new pot as Bonam for Ammavaru with turmeric, bangles, and neem.

We take part in the Bonalu rituals, and dance through the streets. Elders say the goddess chooses us for the sigam. People gather close, offer coconuts, and wait for a sign or a word from Ammavaru.

We’ve been doing this since childhood—for everyone’s well-being.
This is how the tradition continues—through us.”