The Medaram Sammakka–Saralamma Maha Jatara, popularly known as the Telangana Kumbh Mela, has begun. This grand tribal festival, held once every two years, has drawn lakhs of devotees from Telangana as well as neighbouring states including Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
Tribals and non-tribals from several Indian states such as Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and others will converge at the fair to celebrate tribal traditions. The state government has invested Rs 251 crore in the development of Medaram and the creation of permanent infrastructure for Jatara, also known as Sammakka Saralamma Jatara or Medaram Jatara.
Over a million devotees have already paid homage to the presiding tribal deities during the preceding days. The Adivasis from forest fringe habitats along the river Godavari in multiple states congregate once every two years to honor the bravery of legendary warriors, Sammakka and Sarakka.
The tribals reverence them as goddesses, commemorating their valiant efforts to protect them. Belonging to the Koya tribe, the mother-daughter duo perished while battling against the Kakatiya empire around eight centuries ago. The legend suggests that Sammakka and Sarakka resisted the imposition of taxes on tribals during times of drought by the then Kakatiya rulers in the 12th century.
Tribal king Medaraju ruled the tribal settlements along the Godavari riverbank and was supposed to pay a royalty to the Kakatiya king. However, due to a prolonged and severe drought, Medaraju failed to fulfill his obligation, leading the Kakatiya king to invade the region. Fighting against the Kakatiyan army, Medaraju, along with his kin, met their demise. His daughter Sammakka and her daughter Sarakka also perished in the battle. According to local folklore, Sammakka, weary from the struggle, eventually succumbed to her wounds.
This year’s Jatara has attracted significant attention, with the state government focusing on enhancing infrastructure to accommodate the vast number of attendees. The event offers a unique cultural insight into the tribal traditions and history of the region, making it an essential part of India’s diverse heritage.
