Introduction
The
Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple, located in Devaragutta Village, Kurnool
district, Andhra Pradesh, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The
temple is especially famous for the Banni Festival, celebrated during Dasara,
which draws thousands of devotees and visitors every year.
Presiding
Deities
- Malleshwara
Swamy (Lord Shiva)
- Malamma
(Parvati) The divine couple is worshipped with
great devotion, and their idols are central to the Banni ritual.
Temple
Significance
- The temple is
considered an ancient seat of Shaivism in Andhra Pradesh.
- The Banni
Festival is unique to Devaragutta and symbolizes valor, devotion, and
community spirit.
- The midnight
ritual of bringing down the idols of Malamma and Malleshwara Swamy from
the hill temple at Neraneki is the highlight of the celebrations.
Festival
Schedule – 2026
- October 21
– Kalyanotsavam, Jaitrayatra
- October 22
– Bhavisyavani
- October 23
– Abhishekam, Rathotsavam
- October 24
– Vasantotsavam, Kankana Visarjan
- October 25
– Banni Utsavam Ends
Rituals
& Observances
- Midnight
Procession: Idols of Malamma and Malleshwara
Swamy are brought down the hill temple.
- Abhishekam
& Rathotsavam: Devotees perform sacred bathing
rituals and participate in the grand chariot procession.
- Kalyanotsavam:
Symbolic divine wedding of the deities.
- Community
Participation: Devotees gather in large numbers,
offering prayers, flowers, and traditional rituals.
Tips
for Devotees
- Arrive early
to witness the midnight Banni ritual, as it attracts large crowds.
- Carry water
and essentials, as the celebrations continue late into the night.
- Respect local
customs and dress modestly.
- Plan your
visit across multiple days to experience the full range of festivities.
- Combine your
trip with nearby attractions in Kurnool district for a complete
spiritual journey.
Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1.
Where is Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple located? In Devaragutta
Village, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh.
Q2.
What is the highlight of the Banni Festival? The midnight
ritual where idols of Malamma and Malleshwara Swamy are brought down from the
hill temple.
Q3.
When is the Banni Festival celebrated in 2026?
From October 21 to October 25, 2026, coinciding with Dasara.
Q4.
Which deities are worshipped here? Lord Shiva as Malleshwara
Swamy and Goddess Parvati as Malamma.
Q5.
What are the major rituals during the festival? Kalyanotsavam,
Abhishekam, Rathotsavam, Vasantotsavam, and the Banni Utsavam.
Conclusion
The
Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple at Devaragutta is a sacred destination that
comes alive during the Banni Festival. With its midnight rituals, grand
processions, and deep-rooted traditions, the festival offers devotees a unique
spiritual experience. In 2026, from October 21–25, the temple will once
again witness the devotion and celebration that make this festival truly
special.