Telangana declares Monday holiday for Bonalu; schools, offices shut statewide

Hyderabad: The Telangana government has declared Monday an official holiday for the Bonalu festival, shutting down schools, colleges, and government offices across the state.

The decision follows the culmination of the Ashadam Bonalu celebrations, which are reaching their final leg this weekend in Hyderabad. The last major observances of the month-long festival will be held on Sunday.

With Monday designated a public holiday, students will get an extended weekend break. Police have also ordered closure of all wine shops in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad on both Sunday and Monday.

Bonalu, celebrated annually during the Ashadam month, is marked by widespread participation in Hyderabad and surrounding districts. The announcement of the Monday closure applies across Telangana.