Sunday,August 2,2026, Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad became a scene of frustration for lakhs of devotees at Bonalu festivities. Grueling wait times stretched up to five hours as people queued for prayers, lines snaking over a kilometre in all directions.
The afternoon heat added to the misery, especially for families with kids and the elderly. Water packets were handed out,but many were unhappy with lack of facilities. Kunal, there since 8 a.m. with his mother,said,"It's 12 p.m. now and I've been waiting since morning . Every year, same chaos. We hope for less crowd,better management,but end up waiting for hours."
As day wore on, situation worsened. Savitri, 52,in line nearly three hours, called for better arrangements,like seating for long waits. "It's so hot. We get water, but how long can we wait? Many women here are middle-aged. If we must wait hours,seating should be arranged," she said.
Adding to chaos was VIP movement during peak hours, angering the crowd . Devotees questioned why VIPs couldn't come at quieter times. Vanshika,22, expressed frustration: "VIPs can come any time. Why during peak hours when lakhs visit?"
Queue-jumping incidents fueled tensions. Devotees saw individuals,including political workers, bypass barricades . Kiranmayi,with her five-year-old son, said, "Everyone should be equal before God,but days like this show it's not. We have families waiting, some travel far,but visiting temple is now a day-long ordeal. You can't plan for a quick darshan."
Long waits and poor crowd management were big issues. As queues swelled,devotees stressed need for measures considering the volume of people and needs of children,elderly, and those unable to stand long. Festival meant for devotion and celebration turned exhausting for many.
