The Banni Festival, also known as the Banni Utsavam, is an annual festival held in Devaragattu village in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The festival is celebrated on the night of Dussehra and is known for its unique and intense ritual, where participants engage in a symbolic battle using sticks.
Key Aspects of the Banni Festival:
- Historical and Cultural Significance:
- The Banni Festival is rooted in local legends and folklore. It is believed to re-enact a battle that symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
- According to local mythology, the festival commemorates the slaying of a demon by Lord Mala Malleswara Swamy (a form of Shiva), who is worshiped in the Devaragattu temple.
- Stick-Fighting Ritual:
- The most distinctive feature of the Banni Festival is the ritual stick fight. Men from Devaragattu and neighboring villages gather in the temple premises, divided into groups, and engage in a mock battle with sticks.
- The ritual fight often continues into the early hours of the next day and is considered an act of devotion, symbolizing the spirit of protecting the deity.
- Devotional Significance:
- Devotees believe that participating in the festival and bearing minor injuries during the stick fight are auspicious and signify their devotion to the deity.
- Although local authorities encourage safer practices, some traditionalists hold on to the practice as an expression of faith.
- Safety Measures and Changes:
- In recent years, concerns over safety and injuries during the festival have prompted local authorities to deploy medical teams and law enforcement to manage crowds and ensure safety.
- Efforts are also being made to encourage safer celebrations while retaining the cultural essence of the event.
- Community and Festivity:
- The Banni Festival is an occasion for community gathering, and people from nearby regions come together to celebrate.
- Alongside the ritual fight, the festival includes various cultural programs, music, and religious offerings, making it a lively celebration.
Importance of the Banni Festival:
The Banni Festival is a significant cultural event in Andhra Pradesh, reflecting the region’s rich folklore and the community’s devotion to its local deities. It also serves as a reminder of the unique traditions that continue to thrive in rural India, even as efforts are made to balance tradition with safety considerations.
