Men dress up as women to celebrate Holi; Unique tradition in Kurnool dist

On the day of Holi festival each year, an unusual ritual persists in the village of Santhekudlur in the Adoni Mandal of Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. According to reports, on Holi, it is customary for all men from each family to worship Manmadha Swami in female attire. Devotees think that by worshipping in this manner, the crops would grow well, their problems will be solved, and their aspirations will be fulfilled. Every year during Holi, devotees from all across the country flock to this temple to do special pujas in the temple.