Hyderabad: The world-famous Medaram Sammakka–Saralamma Maha Jatara saw a sharp rise in devotees as the festival moved closer to its final stage.
As a result, lakhs of devotees from Telangana and other states continued to reach Medaram in large numbers. The growing crowd once again showed that the Medaram Jatara remains one of the largest tribal religious gatherings in the world.
During the jatara, devotees offered turmeric, kumkum, jaggery, rice, and cloth at the gaddelu of Sammakka and Saralamma. These offerings reflected the simple customs followed in the worship of forest deities.
Despite the heavy rush, darshan went on smoothly across the jatara area. Officials regulated movement through clearly marked and well-managed queue lines.
Devotees waited patiently in a calm setting. Many also took holy dips at the Jampanna Vagu before heading towards the gaddelu for darshan.
Medaram Jatara darshan continues smoothly amid heavy pilgrim rush
To handle the rising crowd, the State government, district officials, and police worked together. Moreover, authorities closely monitored key points to avoid congestion and ensure safety.
At the same time, medical teams stayed ready across the jatara area to offer quick help. Volunteers stood along queue lines and gathering points to guide and assist devotees.
About 500 NSS volunteers from Kakatiya University took part in the arrangements. They helped devotees at the gaddelu, guided pilgrims near Jampanna Vagu, managed queues, and reunited lost devotees with their families.
Devotees expressed happiness with the arrangements. Many said darshan was faster and better organised than in earlier jataras. They also welcomed better cleanliness, security, medical care, and volunteer support.
Several dignitaries visited Medaram and offered prayers. Governor Jishnu Dev Varma performed special rituals and offered jaggery as part of a vow. Director General of Police Shivadhar Reddy and former Governor Bandaru Dattatreya also visited the shrine.
Among others, Minister Seethakka, Forest and Endowments Minister Konda Surekha, Mahabubabad MP Porika Balaram Naik, MLC Basavaraju Saraiah, and MLAs Nayini Rajender Reddy, Payam Venkateswarlu, and Gandra Satyanarayana offered prayers.
In addition, British Deputy High Commissioner Gareth Wynn Owen visited Medaram and performed tulabharam.
Overall, officials said the Medaram Jatara continued peacefully, showing a strong mix of faith, tradition, and smooth administration.