Telugus celebrate Sankranthi with religious fervour

Vijayawada: People in towns and villages in the Telugu states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh celebrated the first day of Sankranthi festival — Bhogi with religious fervour and gaiety on Sunday. 

The three-day harvest festival began in both the states with pomp and gaiety. A festive atmosphere prevailed as people started the day with bonfires on the streets with agricultural and household waste. The three-day festival which is also known as harvest festival, started off with people gathering at streets to lit up fire with unused goods like clothes, wood and sticks. 

Despite the court orders on cockfights, the blood sport was organised in several places in the state. Crores of rupees changed hands as local political leaders, businessmen and even celebrities are seen actively participating in the sport with heavy betting.