Did Telangana CM and ministers pay homage at the tribal shrine in Medaram?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Medaram Jatra is a major tribal festival in Asia.
- Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy participated in rituals at the shrine.
- The state has invested significantly for the festival's preparations.
- Millions of devotees are expected to attend this year.
- The festival is rooted in tribal heritage and spirituality.
Hyderabad, Jan 19 (NationPress) On Monday, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, accompanied by his family and Cabinet members, participated in prayers at the tribal shrine of Sammakka-Sarakka located in Medaram, within the Mulugu district.
Following a historic Cabinet meeting conducted in Medaram, the first of its kind outside of Hyderabad, the Chief Minister engaged in several rituals at the shrine.
He also launched development initiatives by the State government in preparation for the upcoming Medaram Jatra, which is set to commence on January 28.
The Chief Minister unveiled a commemorative pylon and sacred platforms (Gaddelu) dedicated to the deities.
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other ministers were present alongside the Chief Minister.
Millions of devotees are anticipated to attend the Sammakka-Sarakka Maha Jatara, a biennial festival taking place at Medaram from January 28 to 31.
Often referred to as Medaram Jatra, this event is celebrated as one of the most significant tribal festivals in Asia.
The State government has allocated Rs 260 crore for this year’s Jatara, which includes Rs 150 crore for event arrangements and Rs 110 crore for permanent temple infrastructure.
A master plan has been devised to enhance the sacred areas housing the platforms for Sammakka, Saralamma, Pagididdaraju, and Govindaraju, making it convenient for lakhs of devotees to offer their prayers.
During a cultural event in Medaram on Sunday night, the Chief Minister announced that the state government will organize the Medaram Jatara similarly to the Kumbh Mela.
The Chief Minister expressed pride in the development of Medaram Gaddelu and the tribal shrine, ensuring all facilities are in place.
He remarked that the Medaram festival is a historic occasion symbolizing bravery transformed into divinity, being the largest tribal festival where worship is done without a temple.
CM Revanth Reddy honored the courageous women Sammakka and Saralamma, who led a rebellion against the Kakatiya dynasty. He also reminisced about his Padayatra from Medaram on February 6, 2023, with the aim of overturning the BRS government. With the divine blessings of the goddesses, the 'People's Government' was established.
"I deem it a privilege to facilitate the development of Medaram," the Chief Minister stated, noting that the renovation of the structures was completed within 100 days prior to the tribal festival.