Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part B (2024)

The Bonalu Festival, a significant Hindu celebration dedicated to Goddess Mahakali, has been observed since the 18th century in Hyderabad and Secunderabad, Telangana. Celebrated during Ashada Masam (July-August), this festival merges deep-rooted cultural traditions with a commitment to environmental sustainability and public health. Established in 1813 in response to a severe plague, Bonalu exemplifies the community's proactive approach to addressing health crises through a blend of spiritual and practical measures.
Aligned with the monsoon season, Bonalu addresses the increased risk of waterborne diseases and mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria and dengue, which pose particular threats to children. To combat these risks, the festival incorporates eco-friendly practices and traditional wisdom, prominently featuring turmeric in Bonam offerings. This practice not only symbolizes antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits but also supports hygiene and public health, mirroring modern health measures like water chlorination.
Mammidi Harikrishna, Director of the Department of Language and Culture, Telangana, highlights the dual significance of turmeric in the festival: its practical health benefits and its role in spiritual cleansing. Historically, Bonalu has been instrumental in reducing the impact of cholera outbreaks through its community-centered rituals and practices.
Bonalu’s significance transcends its cultural and religious dimensions, representing a neo-classical fusion of science, tradition, and belief. The festival demonstrates how cultural celebrations can incorporate sustainable practices and health measures to address contemporary environmental and public health issues. By combining spiritual and pragmatic approaches, Bonalu illustrates the adaptability and resilience of cultural traditions in tackling modern challenges, highlighting the potential of traditional festivals to promote environmental sustainability and disease prevention.a