Peddapur Unites Through Pure Veg Sundays
The tradition centres on Mallanna Swamy, the village deity.
Hyderabad: Sundays in Peddapur of Jagtial district carry a special significance and stand apart from the usual Telangana custom of heavy meat meals. Here, the 2,000 residents observe a strict ban on meat and alcohol, making the day one of fasting, devotion and community unity.
The tradition centres on Mallanna Swamy, the village deity. For centuries, residents have believed that Sunday is the deity’s favourite day. His shrine stands at the centre of Peddapur. In his reverence, no one consumes meat or alcohol on Sundays. The residents offer prayers during major life events—from children leaving for school to weddings or even travels abroad—considering Mallanna Swamy as witness to their lives.
“Our faith in Mallanna Swamy keeps us united. Observing Sunday as a sacred day without alcohol or meat helps maintain peace and brings blessings to our families,” said Rajeshwar Rao, a Peddapur native living in nearby Metpally.
A temple dedicated to Lord Mallanna Swamy was built in 1972, and villagers believe sincere worship there brings prosperity. Disputes and mistakes are resolved within the community itself, with the deity’s presence invoked as moral authority. Police involvement is rarely required, strengthening social harmony.
Pandit Rameshwar, a local priest, explained, “As per Hindu scriptures, Sundays are among the most important days dedicated to worship and purity. Abstaining from meat and alcohol on this day honours those traditions and helps devotees connect spiritually.”
The highlight of Peddapur’s calendar is the annual Mallanna festival, held in March, following Kamudu Poornima. The festivities begin with a ceremonial bath of the deity’s idol in the Godavari River, followed by a symbolic divine marriage at night. On Sunday, villagers host a massive celebration, offering more than 1 lakh Bonalu —a scale unmatched elsewhere. The festival concludes peacefully on Monday, reinforcing the spirit of unity.
“Growing up here, I learned that faith and unity come from simple acts like observing our Sunday customs. It shapes who we are and keeps us peaceful despite challenges,” said Suresh, a young resident.
Through faith and shared traditions, Peddapur has built a culture of inclusion and responsibility. In an age of division, the village stands as a reminder of how local beliefs can nurture harmony, resilience and collective well-being.