Cattle, specifically cows are considered holy gods in the Hindu society. Kanuma is the major festival for dedicating to the importance of these animals in the nourishment and development of the society. Kanuma Panduga is basically known as Kanuma. Farmers pray and showcase their cattle to village. Cattle is considered prosperity in many Indian regions.
Kanuma forms part of the three day event called Sankranti festival, each and every day having its very own importance. Kanuma falls on the third day of Pongal (Tamil and Malayalam) and is generally known as Mattu Pongal in Southern India and in Andhra it is called as Mukkanuma.
Families meet during the Sankranti event. For sons-in-law it is holiday to their wife’s families. They are treated with utter honor, hospitality. After warm up with the bonfire of Bhogi ,the first day of Sankranti. which is followed by new dresses and delicious meals on the second day of Sankranti. Kanuma is the day for showcasing the gaming and betting talents.
The most eye-catching feature of Kanuma procession of most strong, musciline bulls called ‘Gangireddu’. ‘Gangireddu’ is a colorfully decorated bull led by its master who plays the ‘Nadaswaram’. Bulls are trained by ‘Yadava’ casete to nod ‘Yes’, ‘No’ and dance. Master earns money, clothes and grains by Gangireddu performance from village people. The Gangireddu can dance, nod ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ for master’s questions, kneel down, bow down and stretch its tongue to show it can sing. The famous ‘gangireddu aata’ arranged in coastal Andhra areas. This event showcases bull feats to the entertain the audience. The bull puts his feet on the thighs and stomach.
In olden times, people bet lot of money on cockfights. It is considered high prestige to win. Betting on cockfights used to lead to fights, cold wars and jealousy among majestic families. It is said this reason led to a big war near Palnadu in Guntur district, called as Palnati Yudhdham. At this time, cockfights are prohibited.
The rendition of a ‘Haridasu’ from Sundarakanda or Bhagavatam makes an auspicious beginning for people. Dressed in unique attire with an ‘akshaya patra’ on the head, a ‘tambura’, and ‘chidatalu’, the Haridasu is symbol of Sankranthi culture and tradition.
