Will Telangana CM's Call for Central Funds Revitalize Medaram Jatara?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy demands Central funding for Medaram Maha Jatara.
- The Jatara is set for January 2026.
- CM Reddy calls for national festival status for Medaram Jatara.
- Efforts to develop the Sammakka Saralamma temple are underway.
- Tribal culture and traditions will be prioritized in the temple's development.
Hyderabad, Sep 23 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, has made a strong appeal to the Centre for financial support for the Medaram Maha Jatara, a significant tribal fair set to take place in January 2026.
During a public gathering at Medaram in Mulugu district, he urged the Central Government to recognize the Medaram Jatara as a national festival and to extend adequate backing to the state in organizing this momentous event.
The Chief Minister raised concerns regarding the lack of support from the Centre for what is regarded as India’s largest tribal Jatara held at the renowned Sammakka Saralamma temple.
“While thousands of crores are being allocated for the Kumbh Mela, the indifference towards Medaram Jatara is disheartening,” CM Revanth Reddy stated.
He also critiqued the prior BRS government for neglecting the Medaram temple during its decade-long governance.
Assuring that the state is prepared to allocate the necessary funds for temple development, he expressed, “My visit to the temple is more than just a responsibility; it is a heartfelt emotion. I undertook a padayatra from this sacred site on February 6, 2023, aiming to remove the previous regime.”
Having previously visited the temple, the Chief Minister instructed officials to begin construction of new facilities. He emphasized that all work should be finalized before the Maha Jatara to accommodate the millions of devotees expected to attend.
Stressing that the government was formed with the blessings of Sammakka Saralamma, he reiterated the commitment to fund the temple's development.
He directed the creation of a specialized team to accelerate temple-related projects, aiming for completion within 100 days.
During a review meeting with local temple officials, priests, and community representatives, he highlighted the importance of incorporating tribal culture, traditions, and beliefs into the temple’s development.
Given the temple’s serene natural setting, he insisted that new constructions be resilient against natural calamities, including the establishment of check dams and a facility for the Jampanna Vagu (rivulet).
Officials updated priests and tribal groups on the proposed designs and development initiatives for the temple area.
When tribal representatives raised concerns regarding cultural traditions, the Chief Minister assured that these aspects would be prioritized.