Kurnool, October 22, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
One person was killed and more than 100 others injured during a traditional stick fight held as part of Dussehra celebrations at Devaragattu village in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district, officials said.
The incident occurred late Wednesday night during the annual Devaragattu Banni Utsav in Holagonda mandal, when participants from two groups clashed with sticks despite police efforts to prevent the event.
The deceased was identified as Potaraju, 28, a resident of Alur. The injured were taken to hospitals in Adoni and Alur, with 10 reported to be in critical condition. Those with minor injuries received treatment at a temporary medical facility set up by the authorities.
The annual ritual takes place near the Mala Malleswara Swamy temple, situated on a hillock. Following the ceremonial wedding of the deities Mallamma and Malleswara Swamy around midnight, participants from different villages attempt to take control of the idols in a traditional stick fight.
Villagers from Nerani, Nerani Tanda and Kothapeta take part on one side, while devotees from Arikera, Alur, Suluvai, Ellarthi, Nidravatti and Bilehall participate on the other. Many sustain injuries during the confrontation, which some devotees regard as an auspicious part of the ritual.
According to local belief, the event commemorates Lord Shiva taking the form of Bhairava to defeat the demons Mani and Mallasura with sticks. Participants reenact the episode during the Vijayadashami celebrations.
Authorities had issued orders against the fight and deployed more than 1,000 police personnel this year, but the traditional clash went ahead. Thousands of people from Kurnool, neighbouring districts and Telangana and Karnataka gather annually to witness the event.
FOLLOW NOW
