Sankranti and sacred songs: How Gangadevippalle preserves the ‘Haridasu’ legacy

Makar Sankranti brings colour, music, and long-held traditions to Andhra Pradesh's towns and villages. Among these festive practices is the 'Haridasulu' or 'Haridasu' tradition, which was once an important part of the season.

For generations, households regarded 'Haridasus's' visit as a sacred and auspicious occasion. They were revered as divine emissaries and presented with 'navadhanyalu'—the nine varieties of grains—placed in a 'akshaya patra', a ceremonial vessel symbolising abundance and prosperity.