The Devaragattu Banni Festival, also known as Karrala Samaram or Bunny Utsavam, is a rare and thrilling Dussehra celebration held annually in Devaragattu village, located in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. Famous for its dramatic ritualistic stick fight, this festival draws massive crowds from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and beyond.
In 2025, this high-energy event is expected to take place on the night of Vijaya Dashami—around October 1–2, 2025. More than just a spectacle, it is a living tradition rooted in deep mythology, devotion, and cultural heritage.
What Makes the Devaragattu Banni Festival So Unique?
The Banni Festival is unlike any other Dussehra celebration in India. At the heart of the festival lies a symbolic battle between good and evil, reenacted through a fierce stick fight. It is not a performance—it’s a living ritual where devotees believe bloodshed is a sacred offering to their gods.
Held at the Sri Mala Malleswara Swamy Temple, located on a hilltop, this centuries-old event marks the divine victory of Lord Shiva (Mala Malleswara) and Goddess Parvati over the demons Mani and Mallasura.
Mythological Origins of the Banni Utsavam
According to legend, the demons Mani and Mallasura used to torment sages in the Devaragattu region. In response to the sages' prayers, Lord Shiva and Parvati appeared in the form of Martanda Bhairava and Gargi Mallamma, respectively, and vanquished the demons on Vijaya Dashami night.
Before dying, the demons asked for human sacrifices every year. Instead, the gods offered a fistful of blood. This is now symbolized in the bloodshed during the stick fight, which devotees believe pleases the deities and brings prosperity.
Rituals and Ceremonies: What Happens at the Festival?
🔸 1. Kalyanotsavam (Divine Wedding)
The night begins with a ceremonial wedding of Lord Mala Malleswara Swamy and Goddess Parvati at the hilltop temple.
🔸 2. Banni Jaitra Yatra (Procession)
After the wedding, the deities’ idols are taken down in a grand procession by devotees from villages like Neraniki and Kothapeta. They represent the divine forces.
Simultaneously, groups from villages like Ellarti, Maddigeri, and Hebbetam, playing the role of demons, try to stop the procession—leading to the climactic stick fight.
🔸 3. Karrala Samaram (Ritualistic Stick Fight)
Armed with bamboo sticks, villagers engage in an intense mock battle, symbolizing the original divine war. Injuries are common, but participants consider them sacred.
Medical camps, turmeric for healing wounds, and hundreds of police officers are part of the arrangements.
🔸 4. Mulla Banda and Final Rituals
At Mulla Banda, the temple priest’s leg is pierced with a thorn as a blood ritual. Later, at Simhasana Katta, another blood offering is performed by slitting the priest’s thigh, and future agricultural price predictions are made under the sacred Banni tree.
Why the Banni Festival Still Thrives
-
Victory of Good over Evil: Symbolically aligns with Dussehra’s core theme.
-
Mythological Connection: Deep ties to local beliefs and religious history.
-
Cultural Identity: Reflects regional traditions of the Vijayanagara period.
-
Community Spirit: Despite the violence, the festival strengthens social bonds.
-
Education and Heritage: The event is part of Andhra Pradesh’s Class X syllabus, emphasizing its cultural value.
Is the Devaragattu Festival Safe?
The stick fight, though symbolic, does result in injuries and even fatalities. In 2023, three deaths were reported due to stampedes. In 2024, over 70 people sustained injuries.
Despite a Supreme Court ban on the stick fight in 2008, the ritual continues as devotees prioritize tradition over legal concerns.
Safety Measures:
-
Over 1,000 police personnel are deployed.
-
Medical camps and ambulances are stationed.
-
Awareness campaigns aim to minimize violence.
Note: Spectators are advised to stay at a safe distance and avoid active participation in the stick fight.
How to Attend the Devaragattu Banni Festival 2025
-
Date: Likely on October 1 or 2, 2025 (based on Hindu calendar)
-
Location: Devaragattu village, Holagunda Mandal, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh
🚗 Getting There
-
By Road: 3-hour drive from Kurnool (117 km). APSRTC buses from Adoni, Kurnool, and Alur.
-
By Train: Nearest station is Adoni (26 km away).
-
By Air: Closest airports are Hyderabad (271 km) and Hubli (248 km).
🛏️ Accommodation
Stay in Adoni or Kurnool, as local lodging in Devaragattu is limited.
✅ Visitor Tips
-
Arrive early to avoid crowds.
-
Don’t engage in the stick fight.
-
Follow police instructions.
-
Wear traditional attire and respect local customs.
Nearby Places to Explore
Make the most of your trip with visits to:
-
Mantralayam (70 km): Home of Sri Raghavendra Swamy.
-
Hampi (83 km): A UNESCO World Heritage site full of ancient ruins.
-
Belum Caves and Kurnool Fort (117 km): Unique natural and historical attractions.
For More Information Visit : Bunny Festival
Conclusion: A Festival of Divine Energy and Enduring Tradition
The Devaragattu Banni Festival is a rare blend of devotion, adrenaline, mythology, and community spirit. While its intensity may seem overwhelming, it represents a deep cultural legacy that refuses to fade. As 2025 approaches, this is your chance to witness a festival that’s raw, real, and rooted in centuries-old belief.
🧠 People Also Ask (FAQs)
🔹 What is the Devaragattu Banni Festival?
It’s a ritualistic stick-fighting festival celebrated on Vijaya Dashami night to honor the victory of Lord Shiva and Parvati over demons.
🔹 Why is the Banni Festival celebrated?
It commemorates the mythological battle between good and evil. The stick fight reenacts this event, symbolizing divine victory.
🔹 Is the Banni Festival dangerous?
Yes, the stick fight leads to injuries, and past years have witnessed fatalities. However, medical and security teams are deployed for safety.
🔹 Can tourists attend the Banni Festival?
Yes, tourists are welcome to observe. Participation in the stick fight is discouraged due to safety risks.
🔹 How can I reach Devaragattu?
By road from Kurnool or Adoni. Nearest train station: Adoni. Closest airports: Hyderabad and Hubli.
Comments
Post a Comment