Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar on Friday took part in the traditional Shikhara Pooja and Dhwajarohanam ceremonies at the Lal Darwaza Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple, marking the commencement of the annual Ashada Bonalu celebrations.
Offering special prayers at the temple, the Commissioner said elaborate security and traffic arrangements had been put in place to ensure the festival passes off peacefully. More than 2,000 police personnel have been deployed for bandobast, with additional forces stationed under the supervision of the South Zone police.
Mr. Sajjanar said that coordination meetings had been held with departments including the GHMC, Water Works, Electricity and Roads & Buildings to ensure seamless arrangements for devotees. He noted that the Bonalu festivities at Golconda and Balkampet concluded without any major incidents and expressed confidence that similar arrangements would ensure the smooth conduct of celebrations at Lal Darwaza.
Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar taking part in the traditional Shikhara puja and Dhwajarohanam ceremonies at the Lal Darwaza Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple on Friday. | Photo Credit: NAGARA GOPAL
He said the Crime Branch and SHE Teams would maintain round-the-clock vigil to prevent eve-teasing, chain snatching, pickpocketing and other offences during the festivities. He appealed to devotees and temple committee members to cooperate with the police to ensure the celebrations conclude safely and peacefully.
The Commissioner also highlighted the historic significance of the Lal Darwaza temple, where the Ashada Bonalu festival has been celebrated for more than 120 years. Senior police officers and officials from the GHMC and Endowments Department were present at the ceremony.
Published - July 31, 2026 07:04 pm IST
Source: The Hindu - India News
