50-Foot Cross Enthroned at Maria Giri Shrine as Nalgonda Diocese Begins Golden Jubilee

Nalgonda, September 15, 2026: A 50-foot Cross has been enthroned atop the Maria Giri Shrine in Nalgonda, Telangana, marking the beginning of the Golden Jubilee year of the Diocese of Nalgonda.

The solemn ceremony was held on September 14, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, drawing hundreds of faithful to the shrine for a pilgrimage and prayer.

The monumental Cross, erected under the guidance of Fr Dhana Raju, stands on a natural rocky hill at an elevation of about 289 metres above ground level. Visible across the surrounding landscape, it is intended to serve as a lasting sign of faith and a symbol of hope in the region.

Bishop K. Dhaman Kumar, MSFS, of Nalgonda led the pilgrimage to the summit, joining the faithful in climbing the rugged hill on foot. Upon reaching the peak, the Bishop solemnly blessed the newly enthroned Cross.

In his message, Bishop Dhaman Kumar described the mountain peak as a place that could become a perpetual sanctuary of prayer. He prayed that the Cross would remain a beacon of hope and a visible witness to God's presence for people of every background and faith.

Reflecting on the significance of the Cross, the Bishop reminded the faithful that it is the ultimate symbol of unconditional and sacrificial love.

The enthronement comes as the Diocese of Nalgonda begins its Golden Jubilee celebrations, linking the 50-year milestone with devotion to the Holy Cross and the Church's mission of witnessing to faith, hope and love in a diverse and multi-religious society.

The newly erected Cross is expected to become a prominent landmark of Maria Giri Shrine and a place of pilgrimage and prayer for the faithful.

By Fr. Kiran Goli

Priest- Secretary of Nalgonda Diocese