The world-famous Medaram Maha Jatara officially commenced with the auspicious ‘Gudi Melige Panduga’, marking the ceremonial beginning of Asia’s largest tribal festival. Priests of the forest deities performed the sacred rituals with deep devotion, bringing spiritual vibrancy to Medaram and surrounding villages.
Sacred Rituals Mark the Start of the Jatara
Early on Wednesday, tribal priests and their families walked into the forest to collect puttamatti (sacred soil) and guttagaddi (special grass), following age-old traditions. Women decorated the temples using puttamatti, while men adorned the temple roofs with guttagaddi. As a result, temples in Medaram, Kannepalli, Punugondla, and Kondayi wore a divine look.
Meanwhile, priests observed strict fasting and cleansed the sanctums. Amid drum beats and traditional chants, they offered lamps, incense, and naivedyam to the forest deities. These rituals will continue until the conclusion of the jatara, strictly following tribal customs.
Massive Devotee Turnout Ahead of Main Events
Even before the main jatara days, Medaram witnessed a huge influx of devotees. Officials estimate that around 50,000 devotees visited the shrine on Wednesday alone. First, devotees took holy dips in the Jampanna Vagu. Then, they offered jaggery (symbolically called gold), turmeric, vermilion, and new clothes at the deity platforms.
In addition, devotees arrived not only from Telugu states but also from Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, highlighting the festival’s widespread spiritual significance.
Arrangements and Administrative Support
Pujari Sangham president Siddaboyina Jaggarao, along with priests of Sammakka and Saralamma, participated actively in the rituals. At the same time, officials from the Endowments Department and district administration closely monitored arrangements to ensure a smooth experience for devotees.
Furthermore, anticipating a surge in crowds as the jatara approaches, RTC special bus services are being arranged. Authorities have assured that all necessary facilities are in place to manage the growing footfall efficiently.
Overall, the Medaram Maha Jatara has begun on a spiritually uplifting note, with traditions, devotion, and massive public participation coming together in a grand celebration of tribal faith and culture.
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