1,000 police personnel deployed for Devaragattu Banni festival in Kurnool district
Authorities in Kurnool district have deployed 1,000 police personnel to manage the annual Banni festival, which is known for its violent traditions. Security measures include surveillance, weapon seizures, and warnings against illicit liquor to prevent injuries.
Why it matters
Highlights the challenge of balancing traditional cultural practices with public safety and law enforcement requirements.
1,000 police personnel deployed for Devaragattu Banni festival in Kurnool district More than 300 sticks seized during cordon and search operations in villages around Devaragattu; SP urges villagers not to resort to violence in the name of tradition and warns them that strict measures have been taken to curb the sale of illicit and country-made liquor KURNOOL All arrangements have been made for the annual ‘Banni’ festival, popularly known as ‘Karrala Samaram’, at Devaragattu in Holagunda mandal of Kurnool district on Wednesday (October 21, 2026) night. People from three villages vie with one another to snatch the idol of the presiding deity, Sri Mala Malleswara Swamy, resulting in injuries, sometimes even fatal ones.
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