One killed, 70 people injured in Banni festival in Andhra Pradesh
One person died and 70 were injured during the annual Banni festival in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, where thousands participate in a traditional stick-fighting ritual. The event drew a massive crowd of nearly three lakh people.
Why it matters
The incident raises questions about public safety and crowd control during large-scale traditional religious gatherings.
One killed, 70 people injured in Banni festival in Andhra Pradesh left Villagers, armed with sticks, participating in the Banni festival at Devaragattu in Holagunda mandal of Kurnool district on Wednesday night. U. SUBRAMANYAM The Hindu https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/vtln2b/article71611867.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/USM_8068.JPG RAO GN KURNOOL,ANDHRA PRADESH,22/10/2026: Villagers clash with sticks as part of Banni festival, also known as Karrala Samaram, in Devaragattu in Holagunda mandal of the district on Wednesday night.PHOTO: U SUBRAMANYAM / THE HINDU Nearly 3,000 people clash with each other with sticks as per the rituals at Devaragattu Hills near Sri Malamalleswara Swamy temple KURNOOL One devotee died and at least 70 people…
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