600-Year-Old Paruveta Utsavam in Ahobilam Set for UNESCO Heritage Tag
February 7, 2026
Paruveta Utsavam, a centuries-old socio-religious procession in Ahobilam, has been held for over 600 years without interruption. This 40-day festival involves carrying the idol of Lord Narasimha through 33 nearby villages. Devotees from all castes and religions receive blessings, showing the festival’s spirit of equality and harmony.
The Chenchu tribe, who live in the Nallamala forest near Ahobilam, have a deep bond with this event. Legend says Lord Narasimha married Chenchu Lakshmi, a tribal woman, linking the tribe closely to the festival. Each year, the oldest tribal member shoots the first arrow at the palanquin carrying the deity’s idol. This year, 56-year-old Mokula Chinna Gurrappa performed this honour.
The festival occurs during Sankranti as a mock hunting ritual called 'Kanuma'. The procession passes through villages, even predominantly Muslim areas, without any conflict. Every local community actively participates. The palanquin is carried by the Bestha Gangaputraa fisherfolk across challenging terrains.
The festival is special as the idol visits devotees’ homes, unlike other pilgrimages where people visit temples. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana both support Paruveta Utsavam. Andhra Pradesh made it a state festival in March 2024, and Telangana sends sacred clothes yearly.
Officials plan to invite President Droupadi Murmu to attend and inaugurate the event in 2027.
The Indian government is preparing to nominate the festival for UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list this year. The Nandyal INTACH chapter and all 33 panchayats have requested the tag, which would give it global recognition.
This ancient festival stands for unbroken faith and equality, showcasing India’s rich cultural unity.
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Tags:
Paruveta Utsavam
Ahobilam
Unesco
Lord Narasimha
Chenchu Tribe
Sankranti Festival
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