Actor Vijay Deverakonda joined the Bonalu celebrations in Hyderabad’s Old City on August 9. The actor visited the historic Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple in Lal Darwaza and offered prayers during the festival. He was accompanied by his brother and actor Anand Deverakonda and filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga.
The three visited the temple and performed special pujas as part of the celebrations. They offered coconuts and sought the blessings of Goddess Mahankali. Vijay’s visit attracted a large number of fans and local devotees, who gathered around the temple hoping to see the actor.
Videos and pictures from the visit have been shared widely on social media. The visuals show Vijay interacting with people gathered at the temple and taking part in the traditional rituals. He was also seen breaking coconuts before making his way through the busy streets of the Old City with Anand and Sandeep.
The actor’s visit came as Hyderabad was celebrating Bonalu, one of Telangana’s important traditional festivals. The festival is closely connected with the worship of local forms of Goddess Mahankali and is celebrated with special prayers, processions and traditional activities.
The annual Bonalu celebrations in Hyderabad’s Old City are taking place over two days on August 9 and 10, 2026. Several important temples are at the centre of the celebrations, including the Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple at Lal Darwaza. Temples in Sultan Shahi and Hari Bowli are also hosting festivities during the occasion.
One of the main traditions of Bonalu involves women carrying decorated pots known as bonam. These pots are prepared as offerings for the goddess. The festival also includes traditional music and folk dances, creating a lively atmosphere across the Old City.
Security arrangements have also been increased in the area because of the large crowds expected during the celebrations. Police and local authorities are managing movement around the major temples and busy streets.
Vijay’s participation in the festival brought additional attention to the celebrations, with several fans gathering to see him. His visit also reflected his participation in a local Telangana tradition as residents and devotees came together to observe Bonalu.
The celebrations will continue through August 10, with devotees expected to visit the temples and take part in the various rituals and festivities.