The Sammakka Sarakka Jatara, known as Asia’s largest tribal fair, commences in Medaram, Telangana’s Mulugu district. Over two crore devotees from across the country are expected to participate in the four-day event. This biennial fair, often likened to Telangana’s Kumbh Mela, witnesses the convergence of tribals and non-tribals from various states to celebrate tribal traditions.
Authorities have allocated Rs 251 crore for the development of Medaram and the establishment of permanent infrastructure for the Jatara. The event honors the legendary warriors Sammakka and Sarakka, revered as goddesses by the tribals. These mother-daughter duo fought against the Kakatiya empire around eight centuries ago to protect the tribal community.
The state government, in preparation for the Jatara, has made extensive arrangements, including deploying over 42,000 officers and employees from 21 departments. Security measures involve 13,000 police personnel and the use of an AI-based drone policing system for crowd monitoring. Additionally, the Medical and Health Department has set up 30 health camps and deployed 5,192 medical staff to ensure the well-being of devotees.
Devotees partake in rituals such as offering jaggery, red blouse pieces, vermilion, and turmeric to the deities, considering it auspicious. They also take a holy dip in Jampanna Vagu, believed to cleanse sins. The event witnesses the operation of special trains by the South Central Railway and helicopter services by the Tourism Department for pilgrims’ convenience.
