In a recent update from Andhra Pradesh, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is making efforts to secure UNESCO recognition for the annual ‘Paruveta’ festival.
Importance of Paruveta Festival
- The fest, also known as the ‘mock hunting festival’, is celebrated at the Sri Narasimha Swamy temple in the town of Ahobilam.
- It signifies communal harmony and is a unique heritage festival.
UNESCO Recognition Efforts
- INTACH aims to have the festival recognized as ‘intangible cultural heritage’ by UNESCO.
- The festival’s nomination is currently under review by the Sangeet Natak Academy, the designated nodal agency for such deliberations.
Legend and Historical Background
- The festival’s origin dates back to the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Narasimha in Ahobilam.
- Narasimha married Maha Lakshmi, reborn as Chenchulakshmi, a tribal girl, connecting the festival with tribal traditions.
- Historical records document the reverence of Chenchu tribes for Ahobila Narasimha and their tradition of inviting Him home on Makar Sankranti.
Rituals and Observances
- The festival involves the ‘Narasimha Deeksha,’ observed uniquely in Ahobilam.
- During the festival, the deity from the temple’s inner sanctum is taken to the 32 Chenchu tribal villages surrounding Ahobilam town for a duration of 40 days.
- While Paruveta rituals are commonly observed in many temples during Vijayadasami or Sankranti, at Ahobilam, it extends for a ‘mandala,’ lasting forty days.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What is the objective of INTACH regarding the Paruveta festival?
- A) To organize the festival annually
- B) To secure UNESCO recognition for the festival
- C) To promote the festival locally
- D) To restrict the festival’s celebrations
- Where is the Paruveta festival celebrated?
- A) Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- B) Somnath Temple
- C) Sri Narasimha Swamy Temple
- D) Meenakshi Amman Temple
- What is the significance of the Paruveta festival?
- A) It marks the beginning of the harvest season
- B) It celebrates the victory of good over evil
- C) It signifies communal harmony
- D) It commemorates the birth of a deity
- Who is responsible for reviewing the nomination of the Paruveta festival for UNESCO recognition?
- A) UNESCO Council
- B) Indian Parliament
- C) Sangeet Natak Academy
- D) Ministry of Culture
- What is unique about the Paruveta festival in Ahobilam compared to other temples?
- A) It lasts for seven days
- B) It involves mock hunting
- C) It is celebrated during Diwali
- D) It extends for a ‘mandala’ of forty days