In Maharashtra, the family deity (Kuldaivat) of the Perki community is Khandoba of Jejuri, who is worshipped in Andhra Pradesh under the name Mallanna.
This revered god is also the patron deity of pastoral and agrarian communities such as the Dhangars, Gollas, Yadavas, and Perikas, symbolizing strength, protection, and divine justice.
Names such as Gangaram, Mallanna, Malamma-Mahavva, Mallesh, and Bhallesh are quite common in this region. The legend of Mallanna is preserved in folk literature and is narrated across villages in Telugu through a traditional oral performance known as “Oggu Katha.”
The term “Oggu” refers to a large percussion instrument similar to a mridangam (drum), used during these devotional recitations. It is believed that the original deity Mallanna is the same as Mailar Dev, whose ancient temple and cult center are located in the Bidar district. In Telangana, especially around the sacred sites of Bhimashwar, Kaleshwar, and Srisailam, the early settlements of the Perki community are found. Hence, in their devotional practices and rituals, the mention and worship of these three Shiva Lingas are prominent.
Whenever the Perki people set out with their trading caravans (tandas), they made it a point to visit and pay homage at these Shiva shrines.
The primeval deity (Adidaivat) of the Perki community is Rajarajeshwara of Yamalawada (Vemulawada). Even today, many Perki families perform important rites there — such as the first hair-cutting ceremony (Javal) for their children, as well as certain post-funeral rituals (Uttarakriya).
They also make vows (Navas) to the deity, and upon their fulfillment, they perform circumambulation (Pradakshina) of the temple along with Nandi (the sacred bull), expressing their gratitude and faith.
In Andhra Pradesh, temples dedicated to Khandoba (Mallanna) are also found in Vemavaram (Ramachandrapuram–Godavari district) and Kondaveedu (Guntur district) In Maharashtra, the Khandoba temple at Jejuri is world-famous.
In their own ways, the Perki people continue to worship their revered deities, and by having darshan (sacred sight) of them, they feel spiritually fulfilled and blessed.
At other times too, devotion and worship of Mallanna (a form of Lord Shiva) are regularly performed with great faith, but on special auspicious occasions, the ritual worship of Mallanna is still a deeply rooted tradition among the Perki community.
During wedding ceremonies, all members of the clan gather together to perform the ritual worship of their deity. Likewise, on Diwali and other festivals, the worship of Mallanna is carried out ceremoniously. A special ritual known as “Sat Puja” (or Satt Puja) is performed with great devotion, especially in the Vanahad region.
In the worship of Mallanna, “Bhandara” (turmeric powder) holds special importance. During the puja, every member of the clan takes the name of their ancestors and family lineage (Gotra) while offering Bhandara (sprinkling turmeric). They then bow before the deity with reverence, chanting “Uge Uge” or “Ghughe Ghughe”, a traditional devotional call.
Here, no idol or image of the deity is used; instead, a small decorated earthen pot (matka) is placed as a symbolic representation of the god. A clay lid is placed over the pot, with turmeric (Bhandara) kept inside it. This pot is installed and worshipped just like a sacred Kalasha (holy vessel) in Vedic rituals.
Traditionally, Sunday is regarded as the sacred day (Var) of Khandoba or Mallanna. His favorite offerings (Naivedya) include Puran Poli, Kheer, Bharit (mashed vegetables), and Rodga (flatbread).
In Vanahad, the Sat Puja is celebrated with intense devotion. Various food preparations are made for the occasion — Vade, Pathya (snacks), Kheer, Puran Poli, Panage (sweet drink), and other delicacies.
All these food items are arranged together in a heap and decorated beautifully. On top of this, five metal pots (Panch Kalash) are stacked one above the other, forming a tiered structure. A lamp made of wheat dough is lit and placed before it.
All family members are invited, and Bhandara (turmeric) is offered collectively. Items such as coconut, Davna leaves (aromatic herb), Bel leaves, and turmeric are used in the ritual.
This festival is generally celebrated on a Sunday in the month of Ashwin (September–October). Even in the regions of Marathwada and Vidarbha, this festival continues to be observed — sometimes on a smaller, sometimes on a grander scale — with the same deep reverence and joy.
