‘Paruveta Utsavam’, the annual socio-religious procession from the forest fringes of Ahobilam to 33 villages nearby over about 40 days, has been happening uninterruptedly for over six centuries. The earliest inscriptional evidence of the temple festival dates back to the Kakatiya period during the reign of Prataparudra Mahadeva. It is this sojourn that is enacted now in the form of a ‘Paruveta’ to the nearby villages. The palanquin is carried from village to village strictly by the palanquin bearers hailing from the Bestha Gangaputraa (fisherfolk). The UNESCO tag is expected to bring global repute to the ancient festival, which is synonymous with unshakeable faith and egalitarian outlook.

Source: The Hindu February 07, 2026 04:52 UTC