Visakhapatnam: Anthakapalli is a serene village nestled within the Rajam mandal of Srikakulam district. The entire village is a close-knit community of around 3,000 residents, who have not celebrated Bhogi for over a century.
Even to this day, they do not build or light a Bhogi bonfire of old things that are no longer being used. Anthakapalli villagers stopped lighting the bonfire in memory of a cat that had lost its life in the Bhogi bonfire over a hundred years ago.
This long tradition shows their respect and honour for all living beings.
Instead, Anthakapalli villagers start celebrating Sankranti from the Bhogi day itself. The village goes on to celebrate the actual Sankranti too.
Village sarpanch Vakamulla Chinnam Naayudu told Deccan Chronicle that even families that have moved away from Anthakapalli, start celebrating Sankranti from the Bhogi day itself. Chinnam Naayudu said the choice of unitedly abstaining from Bhogi, often viewed as a symbol of good fortune, makes Anthakapalli unique among villages and towns that embrace bonfires.
The village celebrates Sankranti on two days in a spirit of inclusiveness and warmth, inviting relatives and friends to share their bountiful feast. Villagers have kept a century-old custom alive and are passing it on to future generations.
