Banni festival

About Banni festival

• It is a traditional stick-fight
• It is celebrated on the night of Dussehra celebration (Vijaya Dasami) every year.
• The objective of this event was to snatch the idols from the God’s team, leading to a fierce battle known as the Banni Fight. 
• This festival was celebrated by people under the Vijayanagara Empire. 
• It is celebrated on the account of the victory of Lord Mala Malleswara Swamy and Goddess Parvati over demonish Mani and Mallasura, who troubled the people at Devaragattu region.
• Rituals
  • The ritual takes place at midnight when the procession of idols of the ruling deities Malamma (Parvati) and Malleshwara Swamy (Shiva) are brought down the hill temple at Neraneki.
  • Devotees carry long sticks or lathis with them for hitting each other with these sticks on the head.
  • The basic idea of this fight is to capture the procession idol.

Q1) What are traditional art forms?

Traditional art forms encompass a wide range of artistic expressions that have been passed down through generations and are often deeply rooted in the culture and history of a particular region or community. These art forms are typically practiced using traditional techniques, materials, and styles, preserving cultural heritage and reflecting the values and beliefs of the people who create them.

Source: Three dead during ‘Banni’ festival at Devaragattu in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district