Ever thought that being covered in cow dung would be considered auspicious? Well it might sound a bit weird but there’s a festival called Gorehabba, popularly known as the “cow dung festival”, celebrated every year in Gumatapura in Talavadi, Erode district of Tamil Nadu. This Kannada-speaking village is set on the border with Karnataka and is known for this unusual poopy fest! The best part of this festival is the participants throw cow dung at each other as a ritual to mark the end of Diwali and honour the local deity, Beereshwara Swamy. It is believed that the unique tradition brings blessings, good health, and prosperity.Not many must be aware of the fact that the day is celebrated by the Kuruba community and is dedicated to Beerappa, who is an avatar of Lord Shiva. This festival is perfect for travellers who love exploring and experiencing unique and offbeat festivals. And if you wish to enjoy the festival, plan a trip around Diwali as it is celebrated just a day after Diwali. Despite its playful, even shocking appearance to outsiders, this festival has layers of history, faith, and rural tradition woven into every moment.The Origins
As per local belief, Beerappa was born from cow dung. And this is because it is considered as sacred and purifying. It is also considered to have healing properties and villagers believe that it can cure any disease. Rituals using cow dung are part of many ancient Indian traditions, including the concept of panchagavya used in Vedic practices.Today, Gorehabba is India’s own La Tomatino festival. The only difference is people here throw cow dung at each other rather than tomatoes. The festival attracts both states and curious travellers from across the nation.How is it celebratedThe day after Deepavali, the festival begins in the village temple dedicated to Beerappa. After the morning rituals, villagers collect fresh cow dung from surrounding cattle sheds and start throwing at each other in an open ground. It is considered as the “holy material” of the day.The cow dung war of fun
Around noon, men of the village start forming a group. They look happy and enthusiastic. A huge pile of cow dung paste is prepared and kept at the center. And this is how the fun cow dung fight starts. Participants throw the cow dung paste at each other, much like Spain’s La Tomatina.The fight continues for over an hour or two. It is a lot of fun and laughter festival that celebrates community unity. Understand that Gorehabba is more than a unique festival, it plays a powerful social role. This is the one day when people forget caste barriers and villagers from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka come together to play a cultural festival with much zest.It is one of those festivals wherein young and old participate together and migrants come home to be a part of the fun festival. For rural communities, these festivals are their identity. And for travellers, it is a golden chance to witness a rare cultural fest of a South Indian village.Best time to visitThe festival takes place the day after Diwali each year. Dates can differ every year as per the Hindu lunar calendar.How to reach Nearest major city (Karnataka side): Mysuru (about 80–90 km)Nearest city (Tamil Nadu side): Erode (around 70–80 km)From either side, taxis and local buses are available. Reach Talavadi and then to Gumatapura.Photographer’s dream
Capturing this festival is every photographer’s dream! It is a visually spectacular festival. It is suggested that you seek permission before clicking, especially women. Locals are usually welcoming, but respectful behavior is appreciated.Today, the festival is covered by national and international media each year. It is also a reminder of India’s beautiful and unique cultural diversity, where fun, faith and folklore create experiences of a lifetime.
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