The Medaram Maha Jatara begins with Saralamma’s arrival close to midnight, marking the formal start of one of the largest tribal festivals in the country. Devotees gathered in large numbers at Medaram in Mulugu district to witness the traditional rituals.
Priests brought Saralamma from Kannepalli village amid drumbeats, chants, and religious fervour. The arrival signalled the beginning of the four-day biennial jatara, which draws lakhs of devotees from Telangana and neighbouring States.
Authorities made elaborate arrangements to manage the crowd. Police, revenue, and health department teams were deployed across the festival area. Temporary shelters, drinking water points, and medical camps were set up for pilgrims.
The festival will reach its peak on the night of January 29. Mother Sammakka is scheduled to arrive from Chilakalagutta in the form of a vermilion casket. Devotees believe her presence blesses families with prosperity and protection.
Tribal customs and age-old traditions remain at the heart of the jatara. Despite modern arrangements, rituals continue in their original form.
The Medaram Maha Jatara begins with Saralamma’s arrival, setting the stage for days of devotion, sacrifice, and celebration.
