Sankranti
The Sankranti festival (known locally as Pedda Panduga or the “Big Festival”) is the most important and joyous event in the Narsapuram region, celebrating the sun’s entry into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) and the end of the harvesting season.
The Four-Day Celebration
Sankranti is celebrated over four days, each with its own customs and significance:
- Bhogi: Marked by the lighting of the Bhogi Mantalu (bonfire) early in the morning, where old and unwanted articles are tossed into the fire. This symbolizes the burning of the old and the beginning of the new. The evening features the Bhogi Pallu, a ceremony where berries, coins, and flowers are showered over children for their well-being.
- Makara Sankranti: The main day. People wear new clothes, offer special prayers, and prepare the traditional sweet dish, Ariselu (sweet rice cakes). Families gather and exchange gifts.
- Kanuma: Dedicated to cattle, which play an indispensable role in the agricultural harvest. Farmers worship their cattle, feed them special treats, and participate in processions.
- Mukkanuma: The final day, focused on community feasts and bonding.
Unique Cultural Highlights
For the agricultural and fishing communities of Narsapuram, Sankranti is a time to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest and reconnect with family and heritage.
- Muggulu (Rangoli): Women draw intricate and colorful Muggulu (patterns) in front of their homes, often decorated with Gobbemma (small balls of cow dung and flowers), symbolizing prosperity.
- Haridasu and Gangireddu: The streets of Narsapuram come alive with traditional performers. The Haridasu (a Vaishnavite devotee) visits homes, singing songs of Vishnu with a copper vessel and a unique cap. The Gangireddu performer displays decorated oxen trained to nod their heads to music.
- Kite Flying: The sky is filled with colorful kites as people of all ages participate in friendly kite-flying competitions.
- Puli Veshams (Tiger Dance): Traditional folk dancers dress up as tigers and perform on the streets to entertain the public.