Lakhs of devotees have gathered at Medaram in Telangana’s Mulugu district for the Samarkka Saralamma Jatara, known as Asia’s largest tribal fair, now in its third day. The fair is proceeding smoothly with tight security and extensive arrangements by the State government. Devotees from various regions, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh, are offering prayers to tribal deities Samakka and Saralamma.
The temple’s open ground is brimming with devotees, with long queues seen at the temple premises. The atmosphere is filled with devotional fervor as devotees participate in the celebrations. Many have also visited the Jampanna Vagu stream for a holy dip. Officials have reported that the biennial event is progressing peacefully and efficiently.
Among the attendees, British Deputy High Commission in Hyderabad, Gareth Wynn Owen, visited the Sammakka–Saralamma Temple and took part in the Thulabaram ritual. Dressed in traditional attire, he was briefed on the significance of the event and the arrangements made for devotees. Various dignitaries, including Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and former Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, have also offered prayers at the fair.
The main ritual of the Jatara took place on Thursday night, with traditional customs observed as Sammakka Thalli began her journey. At Chilakalagutta, special pujas were performed for Sammakka Thalli by the chief priest and other priests. The event, held every two years, witnesses a large number of devotees expressing their devotion through rituals and prayers.
