With reference to the Banni Festival celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, consider the following statements:1.It is a stick-fighting competition where participants engage in friendly combat using sticks.2.It showcases classical Indian dance forms, including Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Kathak.3.It is famous for its grand elephant parades, stunning firework displays, and traditional percussion performances.4.It has origin since the times of Vijayanagara Empire.Which of the statements given above are correct?

Q. With reference to the Banni Festival celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, consider the following statements:
1.It is a stick-fighting competition where participants engage in friendly combat using sticks.
2.It showcases classical Indian dance forms, including Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Kathak.
3.It is famous for its grand elephant parades, stunning firework displays, and traditional percussion performances.
4.It has origin since the times of Vijayanagara Empire.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1 and 4 only

[D] 2, 3 and 4 only

Answer: C

Notes:

Explanation – The Banni Festival is a traditional stick-fight festival celebrated in the Devaragattu village of Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh, India. It is celebrated on the night of Vijaya Dasami, the last day of the Dussehra festival. The Banni Festival is a symbolic reenactment of the battle between the good and the evil. While one group of devotees make attempts to hijack the idols, the other group try to defend themselves along with protecting the deities.

It has origin since the times of Vijayanagara Empire.

It aims to mark the victory of Lord Shiva (Mala Malleswara Swamy) and Goddess Parvati (Malamma) over demons Mani and Mallasura who used to trouble people at Devaragattu region.

Devotees from Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka participate as the Mala Malleswara Swamy Temple is located on the border of these states.

Source: ForumIAS

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