Bonalu, Bathukamma declared ‘State festivals’

Hyderabad: Bonalu and Bathukumma, the traditional festivals of Telangana region, have got their due finally. From now on, these festivals will be recognised as ‘State festivals’. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao took a decision to this effect on Monday. Rao directed the authorities to make all arrangements for the ensuing Ramzan and Bonalu festivals.

KCR chaired a meeting at Secretariat on measures to be taken up for Ramzan and Bonalu festivals, especially in the State capital. He directed civic authorities’ to take steps to ensure clean and hygienic conditions near places of worship in twin cities. He also told them to ensure adequate drinking water supply for the convenience of people offering prayers. The Chief Minister also directed electricity department officials to take steps to provide uninterrupted power supply particularly in mosques and temples in the coming weeks. Few city legislators brought to the notice of the Chief Minister about last year’s ‘City Light’ hotel tragedy and impressed upon him the need to check ‘Haleem’ kilns thoroughly by authorities. They also informed him about rampant sale of spurious milk during Ramzan month. In response, Rao order authorities to crack a whip and take stern action against offenders.

Later, briefing reporters MIM legislator Ahmed Balala informed that TRS government would be releasing Rs 5 crore for Ramzan festival arrangements in ten districts. He also told officials to ensure all facilities in mosques.

Meanwhile, Excise Minister T Padma Rao said the government would conduct Bathukamma and Bonalu festivals on a grand scale. We would leave no stone unturned regarding arrangements for Ramzan festival. The Chief Minister expressed his interest to visit various places in the city himself during Ramzan and Bonalu festivals.