NEWS –  The four-day Sammakka Saralamma Jatara which is said to be the world’s largest congregation of tribals kick-started at Medaram in Mulugu district, Telangana

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sammakka and Saralamma are revered as tribal deities and are believed to be protectors of the people. Legends associated with their worship are deeply ingrained in the cultural and religious traditions of the region
• The Jatara is celebrated once every two years, attracting millions of devotees from different parts of the country
• Medaram, a small hamlet in the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, transforms into a temporary town during the Jatara. The festival site covers a vast area to accommodate the massive congregation of pilgrims
• The Jatara is not only a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza. Traditional tribal dances, music, and other performances are integral parts of the celebration.
• Devotees set up temporary wooden structures known as “gaddelu” to represent the goddesses. These wooden structures are considered sacred during the festival.