Pidakala Samaram: India’s cow dung festival that draws huge crowds - Video
Residents of Khyruppalla village in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district participate in a traditional ritual known as Pidakala Samaram, where people throw cow dung at one another as part of a cultural practice believed to bring health, prosperity, and timely rainfall.
The event takes place annually and draws large crowds. Footage from the festival shows participants joining a procession before engaging in the ritual, which quickly turns into a chaotic scene as cow dung is hurled between groups. Spectators often gather on nearby balconies to observe the activity from above.
The origins of the ritual are linked to Hindu folklore, particularly a mythological marriage dispute. Two groups take part in the event. One group, including members from castes such as Golla and Kammara, throws cow dung in the name of Goddess Bhadrakali. The opposing group participates in honour of Lord Veerabhadraswamy.
Participants acknowledge the possibility of injuries but often express little concern, citing traditional beliefs about healing. The festival is traditionally held a day after Ugadi, which marks the first day of the Hindu calendar year.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
