The New Zealand Telangana Central Association celebrated a vibrant Telangana Bonalu festival on Sunday 16TH July at the Papakura Ganesh Temple. The occasion witnessed an exceptional gathering of many community leaders including several members of Telangana community. The event was graced by the presence of New Zealand Cabinet Minister, Priyanca Radhakrishnan, along with MP Helen White, Kanwaljit Singh, Siva Kilari, Rahul Chopra, Navjet Sarna, Kharag Singh, Narendra Bhana, Dhanshukh Lal, Jeet Suchdev, Sunil Kuncha, Yatish Wadera, Srilatha Magatala, Sunil Kaushal and several other community leaders. The highlight of the program was the traditional offering of Bonam to Mahankaali, the revered deity.
The festivities were filled with cultural extravaganza, including soul-stirring drum performances and the enchanting recitation of mantras by esteemed priests, led by Priest Chandru and his team. Notably, this event made history as the first time a Cabinet Rank Minister participated in the Bonam offering. The presence and active participation of Cabinet Minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan added immense significance to the celebration. The New Zealand Telangana Central Association expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the Hon Minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan for attending the Bonalu event and gracing it with her esteemed presence.
The High Commissioner of India, Her Excellency Neeta Bhushan sent her wishes to the Telangana Diaspora. Hon Consul Bhav Dhillon also sent his best wishes to the Telangana Diaspora
The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with approximately 1000 attendees who came together to pay their respects and seek blessings from Mahankaali. The New Zealand Telangana Central Association, under the guidance of its founder, Kalyan Rao Kasuganti, and core members, Ram Mohan Danthala, Swathi Payarakaya, Kiran Pokala, along with other dedicated committee members meticulously organized and supervised the event to ensure its success.
Furthermore, Smt. Kalvakuntla Kavitha Garu M.L.C state of Telangana, who was scheduled to attend the event couldn’t attend the event in person due to some visa related issues. However, she sent her warm Bonalu wishes to the attendees through a video message, expressing her regret for not being able to join them physically.
In the spirit of community unity, a sumptuous Mahaprasadam was served to all devotees, spreading joy, and fostering a sense of togetherness among attendees. The New Zealand Telangana Central Association would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Papakura Ganesh Temple committee for their invaluable assistance and support in organizing the Telangana Bonalu event.
This Telangana Bonalu celebration served as a significant milestone in promoting Telangana culture, traditions, and spirituality in New Zealand. The New Zealand Telangana Central Association extends its sincere appreciation to all the participants, volunteers, community leaders, and devotees for their overwhelming support and contribution in making this event a resounding success. -Kalyan Rao Kasuganti for The Indian News