Vijay Deverakonda, Sandeep Reddy Vanga join Bonalu festivities at Lal Darwaza Temple in Hyderabad
Hyderabad, August 9
Actor Vijay Deverakonda joined the Bonalu festivities in Hyderabad's Old City on August 9, offering prayers at the historic Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple in Lal Darwaza.
He was accompanied by his brother and actor Anand Deverakonda and acclaimed director Sandeep Reddy Vanga.
The trio performed special pujas at the temple, offered coconuts and sought the blessings of Goddess Mahankali during the auspicious occasion.
Vijay's visit drew a massive gathering of fans and local devotees, who crowded the temple premises hoping to catch a glimpse of the actor.
Speaking at the Lal Darwaza Bonalu festival, Vijay said, "Happy Bonalu to all. This is the first time I have come to offer prayers to the Goddess. I came along with director Sandeep, and his production house name is Bhadrakali. I sought the blessings of the Goddess and prayed that all your wishes would be fulfilled, and I also prayed for my wishes. I had a good darshan."
Visuals and videos from the visit showed Vijay speaking to the crowd, breaking coconuts and making his way through the bustling festive streets alongside Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The moments quickly drew attention on social media.
The actor's temple visit also underscored his connection with Telangana's local traditions as residents gathered to celebrate Bonalu, one of the region's deeply rooted festivals.
The historic two-day annual Bonalu festival in Hyderabad's Old City is being held on August 9 and 10, 2026.
The celebrations are centred around prominent shrines, including the Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple at Lal Darwaza, as well as temples in Sultan Shahi and Hari Bowli.
The festivities feature women carrying traditionally decorated bonam pots, vibrant folk dances and heightened security arrangements across the Old City.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Love this! Vijay breaking coconuts and walking through the old city streets with Sandeep Reddy Vanga - it's so refreshing to see our stars embrace local festivals instead of just promoting films in malls. The crowd must have been ecstatic!
Sandeep Reddy Vanga's production house is named Bhadrakali, so this visit makes perfect sense. It's nice to see these creative minds staying rooted in their culture. Bonalu in old city has a special charm - the folk dances, the pots, everything is so colourful!
Honestly, these celebrity temple visits often feel like PR stunts, but Vijay seemed genuinely respectful here. He didn't just do a quick photo-op and leave - he spoke to the crowd, acknowledged the festival's significance, and even mentioned his personal prayers. That kind of authenticity matters to fans like us.
The security arrangements must have been massive given the crowd. It's heartwarming to see people from all walks of life come together for Bonalu - from the women carrying bonam pots to families with kids. Vijay and Sandeep just added to the festive energy! Happy Bonalu to everyone in Hyderabad! 🌺
I was there! The energy was electric when Vijay stepped out of the temple. But I wish the media would focus more on the actual festival - the beautiful rituals, the devotion of the locals, the centuries-old traditions. Celebrities are just a small part of this celebration. Still, good to see them participating respectfully.
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