TAUK hosts grand Bonalu celebrations for Telangana community in UK

The Telangana Association of United Kingdom celebrated Bonalu Festival in London with over 2,500 diaspora members participating. The event featured traditional rituals, cultural performances and a Thottela procession. Leaders highlighted the importance of preserving Telangana's cultural identity and passing traditions to future generations

Hyderabad: The Telangana Association of United Kingdom (TAUK) celebrated the Bonalu Festival with great grandeur in London, bringing together more than 2,500 members of the Telangana diaspora from across the United Kingdom. The festival was graced by dignitaries including MP Seema Malhotra, Representative of the High Commission of India Vivek Kumar, former MP Virendra Sharma and Hounslow Mayor Ranjit Gill.

The celebrations recreated the authentic spirit of Bonalu as observed in Telangana, with traditional rituals, devotional offerings and a spectacular Thottela (decorated shrine) procession through the streets of London, which emerged as the highlight of the event. A series of vibrant cultural performances showcased the rich heritage, traditions and artistic excellence of Telangana.

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Addressing the gathering, the chief guests appreciated the efforts of the Telangana community in preserving and promoting their cultural identity overseas. They noted that celebrating festivals together with families helps pass on traditions to future generations and reflects the multicultural and inclusive values of the United Kingdom. They also emphasised the importance of unity and harmony among diverse communities.

TAUK Conveners Ashok Goud Dusari and Naveen Reddy remarked that the growth of Telangana associations across the world and their efforts in promoting Telangana’s culture globally have been made possible by the formation of the State of Telangana. They stated that the people of Telangana should always remember and acknowledge the leadership of K Chandrashekar Rao, the first Chief Minister of Telangana, for his pivotal role in the statehood movement.

TAUK President Ratnakar Kadudula conveyed Bonalu greetings to the global Telangana community. He highlighted TAUK’s initiatives for the welfare of Telangana people and the worldwide Telangana diaspora, inviting everyone to actively participate in the organisation’s activities. He thanked the Founder of TAUK, Anil Kurmachalam, for his guidance. Vice President Sushmna Reddy praised the women who carried Bonalu with devotion, stating that their commitment to preserving Telangana’s cultural traditions inspired the younger generation. General Secretary Supraja Pulusu expressed happiness over the overwhelming success of the Bonalu celebrations and acknowledged that the encouragement, vision and constant support of TAUK Founder Anil Kurmachalam played a significant role in making the event a grand success.