Sammakka Sarakka Jatara in the new Telengana state

MEDARAM in Warangal district is going to be flooded with sea of humanity for this tribal festival which happens only once in two years. Sammakka Sarakka Jatara is India's largest tribal fair happens in mid-February. Devotees from across the country participate in this four day fair known as Medaram Jatra. Devotees believe by taking bath in Jampanna stream, will wash away their sins.

The unique rituals, which include devotees offering jaggery to the deities, with the arrival of Sarakka's image from Kannepally village which was placed on a platform. The image idol covered in red cloth was brought in a vessel laden with vermilion and turmeric powder. The idols of Sarakkaa's father Pagidigidda Raju and husband Govinda Raju will also be brought to Medaram. Serpentine queues of devotees were seen even before the formal launch of the festivities, which will reach the peak when the image of Sarakka's mother Sammakka will arrive from Chilalagutta village.

Sammakka and Sarakka were legendary warriors from the Koya tribe who fought against the Kakatiya Empire 800 years ago and were killed. The festival, which marks the celebration of tribal traditions, has grown in size during the last few years with authorities making elaborate arrangements for the transport of the devotees and smooth conduct of the mega event first in Telangana state. Official estimating to spend more than Rs.180 crore in arrangements to accommodate 10 million people’s participation for this event.

Medaram Sammakka Saralamma Jatara 2016 Dates

February 17, 2016 – Goddess Saralamma will arrive to Platform (Gadde).
February 18, 2016 – Goddess Sammakka will arrive to Platform (Gadde).
February 19, 2016 – Devotees offer naivedyam or other offerings like ‘Bangaram (bellam – jaggery).
February 20, 2016 – Last day of Sammkka Sarakka Jathara. Goddess Sammakkar and Saralamma will return back in to forest.