What Happened in Kurnool During Dussehra Celebrations?
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Synopsis
A tragic incident unfolded during the Dussehra celebrations in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, where a traditional stick fight resulted in two fatalities and over 100 injuries. Delve into the details of this annual event that defies police intervention and explores the cultural significance behind it.
Key Takeaways
- Two fatalities and over 100 injuries reported during a traditional stick fight in Kurnool.
- The event is part of the annual Dussehra celebrations.
- Despite police intervention, villagers continue to uphold their traditions.
- The stick fight is viewed as a reenactment of mythological battles.
- Thousands gather each year to witness this unique cultural practice.
Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh), Oct 3 (NationPress) Tragedy struck during the Dussehra festivities in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, where two individuals lost their lives and over 100 sustained injuries in a traditional stick fight. As is customary each year, two factions clashed with sticks during the Devaragattu Banni Utsav at Deveragattu village in Holagonda ‘mandal’ late Thursday night.
Among the injured, 18 suffered serious injuries and were rushed to hospitals in Adoni and Alur, with five reported to be in critical condition. Those with minor injuries were treated at a temporary facility established by the local authorities.
One victim tragically died at the scene, while another succumbed to cardiac arrest shortly after. This stick fight, an annual event associated with the Dussehra celebrations at the Mala Malleswara Swamy temple situated on a hill, saw villagers ignore police directives, asserting that this event is a vital part of their tradition.
During the festival, community members from various villages split into two groups to battle for the idols of deities Mallamma and Malleswara Swamy after their ceremonial wedding at midnight. Despite police efforts to prevent the fight, the villagers participated with fervor.
Villagers from Nerani, Nerani Tanda, and Kothapeta took on devotees from Arikera, Aluru, Suluvai, Ellarthi, Nidravatti, and Bilehall villages, engaging in fierce combat with sticks. Many injuries were sustained, yet the participants view these injuries as auspicious.
Efforts by authorities to discourage the fight have consistently failed. Each year, police forces are deployed to halt the event, but the villagers persist in their traditions. They believe that on Vijayadashami, Lord Shiva manifested as Bhairava, defeating two demons, Mani and Mallasura, with sticks. Villagers reenact this epic battle, with one group representing the demons attempting to seize the idols from the 'gods' team.
Thousands flock to the village from Kurnool and neighboring districts, as well as from states like Telangana and Karnataka, to witness this unique cultural event.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize both the cultural significance of such events and the urgent need for safety measures. The villagers' dedication to their traditions highlights a deep-rooted connection to their heritage, but the loss of life and numerous injuries raises significant concerns that must be addressed by the authorities.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Devaragattu Banni Utsav?
The Devaragattu Banni Utsav is a traditional festival celebrated during Dussehra, where villagers engage in stick fights as part of cultural festivities.
Why do villagers participate in the stick fight?
Villagers believe that the stick fight is a reenactment of Lord Shiva's victory over demons, and it is an integral part of their cultural heritage.
What measures are taken to ensure safety during the event?
Despite police presence and attempts to prevent the fights, the villagers often proceed with the event, citing it as a tradition.
How many people were injured in the recent incident?
Over 100 individuals sustained injuries, with 18 reported as serious.
What is the significance of the stick fight?
The stick fight symbolizes the battle between good and evil and is a way for the community to celebrate their cultural identity.
