Asia’s largest tribal festival, the Medaram Sammakka–Saralamma Maha Jatara, began with grandeur in Medaram village of Tadvai mandal in Mulugu district. The four-day religious event will continue from January 28 to January 31. Devotees from across Telangana and neighbouring states have started arriving in large numbers to take part in the historic tribal congregation, which reflects deep-rooted faith and indigenous traditions.
The festival follows ancient Adivasi customs, where nature worship holds central importance. From the early hours of the day, the forest routes leading to Medaram witnessed devotional chants and drum beats. Authorities expect record footfall this year and have made extensive arrangements to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.
Saralamma Procession Marks First Major Ritual
The most important ritual on the opening day is the arrival of Saralamma from Kannepalli to the sacred gaddelu (altars) at Medaram. The procession created a spiritual atmosphere as devotees gathered along the route. At the same time, Saralamma’s husband, Pagididda Raju, began his journey on foot from Poonugondla, while her brother, Govindaraju, started from Kondai village.
Tribal priests travelled nearly 70 kilometres through forest paths, carrying symbolic representations of the deities. This journey, deeply spiritual in nature, stood as a testament to tribal faith and endurance. By evening, Saralamma will take her place on the gaddelu, followed by the installation of Pagididda Raju and Govindaraju, marking the formal beginning of key rituals.
State ministers Seethakka and Konda Surekha, along with the district collector, will offer an official welcome to the forest deities. Traditional drum performances and folk dances will accompany the ceremonies, highlighting the rich tribal culture of the region.
Sammakka’s Arrival and Devotee Rituals
The most significant moment of the jatara will unfold on the second day, when Sammakka arrives from Chilukalagutta. Priests will bring her in the form of a kumkum container, while devotees offer prayers and fulfil vows. As Sammakka reaches the gaddelu, chants of “Govinda… Sammakka–Sarakka” will echo through the forest.
Devotees consider offering jaggery equal to their body weight as a sacred ritual unique to Medaram. Many also take holy dips in the Jampanna Vagu before seeking blessings. According to belief, this practice helps remove hardships and bring prosperity.
With crowds swelling every hour, Medaram has turned into a sea of humanity filled with temporary shelters, bullock carts, and pilgrims. To manage traffic and ensure safety, thousands of police personnel and volunteers remain on continuous duty. The government has intensified monitoring to prevent inconvenience and maintain order throughout the four-day festival.
భక్తులతో కిటకిటలాడుతున్న మేడారం మహాజాతర#medaramjathara #medaram2026 #MedaramJatara2026 pic.twitter.com/Kw7t8pre4S
— YK Tv Digital (@yktvdigital) January 28, 2026
For the latest updates, click here.
