At least 70 people were injured, with two in critical condition, as violent clashes erupted during the annual “Banni Utsav”, a highlight of the Dussehra celebrations in Andhra Prades’s Kurnool district on Sunday, officials said.
The annual Banni Utsav, celebrated as part of Dussehra festivities, once again descended into chaos, leaving at least 70 people injured in Devaragattu village, Kurnool district. Two of the injured are reported to be in critical condition, according to local authorities.
The Banni Utsav, held in Holagunda mandal, is known for its traditional stick fights, where villagers from rival factions battle to claim the idols of Mala Malleswara Swamy. Despite increased security measures and restrictions imposed by the police, the midnight celebrations turned violent as participants clashed in the early hours of Sunday, officals said.
Local police had anticipated potential unrest and had deployed additional personnel to manage the crowds and prevent confrontations. However, the intensity of the ritualistic fight overpowered the security efforts, with rival factions engaging in bloody battles to take control of the idols.
Many of the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention, while police continue to monitor the situation.
While the Banni Utsav is considered an integral part of local tradition, its violent nature has sparked concerns. Residents remain divided — some strongly defending the cultural significance of the event, while others are calling for stricter control to prevent further injuries.
