The Telangana government Monday decided to officially celebrate Bonalu and Bathukamma, the Hindu folk festivals of the region.

The decision was taken at a meeting convened by Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhara Rao with senior officials and public representatives belonging to various political parties.

Excise Minister Padma Rao told reporters that the orders declaring Bonalu and Bathukamma as state festivals as state festivals will be issued soon.

The chief minister directed the officials to ensure that the festivals are celebrated in a grand manner. The government will make adequate funds available for making the arrangements.

As the two festivals reflect the culture of Telangana, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government has decided to declare them state festivals.

Bonalu is celebrated in twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad and other parts of the region during the month of ‘Ashada’ (July-August). The women make offerings in the form of food to goddess Mahankali in specially decorated pots. During the month-long festival, people also hold ‘rangam’ or forecasting the future, organize processions and cultural events.

‘Bathukamma’, another key festival of Telangana, is celebrated during September-October. It reflects the rich culture of the region.

At another meeting, the chief minister reviewed the arrangements for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. He directed the officials to take all measures for the smooth conduct of the holy month celebrated on a grand scale in Hyderabad.

Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi and other party leaders urged the chief minister to allow the traders in Hyderabad to do business round-the-clock during Ramadan.

The chief minister directed the officials to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, better traffic management and basic amenities during the holy month.