Medaram Jaatara

Sammakka-Sarakka/Saralamma Jatara

The Medaram Jatara, also known as Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara, is Asia's largest tribal fair and the second-largest human congregation in India after Kumbh Mela. Held biennially in Medaram village, Mulugu district, Telangana, this 4-day festival honors the tribal goddesses Sammakka and Sarakka (Saralamma).

Historical & Mythological Significance

Tribal Legend (12th-13th Century CE)

• The festival commemorates the bravery of a mother-daughter duo from the Koya tribe who fought against the Kakatiya dynasty's unjust taxes.
• Sammakka (mother) was the wife of Pagididda Raju, a tribal chief appointed by Kakatiya rulers.
• When the Kakatiyas demanded excessive taxes, the Koya tribe revolted under Sammakka's leadership.
• After a fierce battle, Sammakka and Sarakka disappeared into the forests, later becoming deified as tribal goddesses.

Sacred Geography

• The festival takes place at Medaram, Tadvai forest, and Jampanna Vaagu (a stream named after Sarakka's son, Jampanna, who died in battle).
• The Sammakka-Sarakka temple is a simple structure, reflecting tribal traditions.

Recognition & Modern Revival

• Declared a State Festival (Sammaakka Sarakka Jaathara) by the Telangana government in 1996.
• Recognized as National Festival by the Government of India (under consideration).

Religious & Cultural Significance

Tribal Faith & Worship

• Sammakka is worshipped as the "Mother of the Forests", while Sarakka is revered as the "Goddess of Valour".
• Devotees offer jaggery (bangaram/gur) equivalent to their weight, coconuts, and turmeric-painted sticks.
• The Koya priests (Pujaris) conduct rituals in the Gondi language, preserving tribal traditions.

Unique Rituals

• Arrival Ceremony (Muggu Gattam) – The goddesses' spirits are brought from the forest in a ceremonial procession.
• Jampanna Vaagu Dipam – Devotees light lamps in the stream to honor Jampanna’s sacrifice.
• Bonfire Ritual (Garelam) – Symbolizes the tribal resistance against injustice.

Social Harmony

• Unlike caste-based Hindu festivals, Medaram Jatara is open to all, including tribals, Hindus, and devotees from other faiths.
• No temple structure – Worship happens under the open sky, reflecting tribal simplicity.

Scale & Economic Impact

Massive Congregation

• 10-15 million devotees attend over 4 days (compared to Kumbh Mela’s 30-50 million).
• Second-largest human gathering in India after Kumbh Mela.

Economic Boost

• Generates ₹500-1000 crore in local business (food stalls, transport, handicrafts).
• Telangana Tourism promotes it as a global tribal heritage event.

Infrastructure & Government Role

• Temporary city with hospitals, police camps, and transport (buses, helicopters).
• Free food (annadanam) served to millions.

Unique Features

✅ Largest Tribal Festival in Asia – Bigger than Pushkar Mela.
✅ No Idol Worship – Only swayambhu (self-manifested) turmeric mounds represent the goddesses.
✅ Women-Centric Festival – Celebrates female warrior energy.

The Medaram Jatara is not just a religious event but a symbol of tribal pride, gender equality, and resistance against oppression. Its raw spiritual energy, cultural richness, and staggering scale make it a must-experience festival in India.