Gangireddu community arrives in Vizag to uphold Sankranti traditions

Easily recognisable due to their distinctive appearance with long moustaches, they adorn their bulls with colourful saris and anklets. They play traditional music with nadaswaram and drums, making the bulls dance to their tunes in front of various houses. In keeping with the tradition, residents offer them rice, clothes and money. The Gangireddu performers then bless the residents with prosperity and good health.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, a community member Ammavaru said: "Each year, we select a different location. This year, we chose Visakhapatnam. Our community members are visiting areas like Madhurwada, Thatchetlapalam, Arilova, Gajuwaka and Madilipalam, carrying forward what our forefathers did."

After the month of Sankranti, the Gangireddu people return to their villages. For the remaining 11 months, some work as daily wage labourers, others run their own shops, while the elderly travel to nearby villages continuing their tradition throughout the year.

Ammavaru said each performer can earn between ₹800 to ₹1,500 per day during the festival. "We pool all our earnings. After we return to our villages, our community leader takes a portion for maintaining the buffaloes before distributing the remainder equally among all members," Ammavaru added.

A temple priest Lakshmaiya highlighted the cultural significance of the Gangireddu tradition: "Since Sankranti is celebrated as a harvest festival, cattle worship is an integral part of the festivities. The Gangireddu tradition and Haridasas singing praises of Lord Vishnu are an essential aspect of the Sankranti festival," the priest stated.