London hosts grand Bonalu celebrations, draws 2,500 Telangana expatriates

The Telangana Association of the United Kingdom (TAUK) organised Bonalu celebrations on a grand scale in London, bringing together more than 2,500 members of the Telugu diaspora from across the UK.

The event featured traditional rituals associated with the Telangana festival, including special pujas and the ceremonial procession of decorated water pots (bonams). A colourful float parade and cultural programmes held on the streets of London emerged as major attractions of the celebrations.

The festivities were attended by MP Seema Malhotra, Indian High Commission representative Vivek Kumar, former MP Virendra Sharma and Hounslow Mayor Ranjit Gill among other dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, the guests said it was inspiring to see families celebrate their cultural traditions abroad and pass them on to future generations. They noted that the celebrations reflected Britain’s inclusive spirit and its embrace of diverse cultures and communities.

TAUK chairman Ratnakar Kadudula, vice-president Sushmana Reddy, general secretaries Supraja Pulusu and Srikanth Jella, along with other office-bearers, took part in organising the event. The organisers said the celebrations showcased Telangana’s rich cultural heritage while strengthening bonds among the Telugu community in the UK.