The historic Medaram Sammakka-Saralamma Maha Jatara, often hailed as the “Kumbh Mela of Telangana,” reached its first major milestone yesterday evening as Goddess Saralamma arrived at the sacred platforms (Gaddelu). Amidst waves of spiritual fervor and traditional rituals, the goddess was brought from Kannepalli to Medaram, marking the official commencement of the tribal festival’s core events.

The proceedings began at the Kannepalli temple, where intricate tribal rituals were performed by traditional priests (Pujaris). Before the goddess began her journey, deities from neighboring regions, including Govindarajulu from Kondayi, were brought to the village. Following a two-hour special prayer session led by chief priest Kaka Sarayya and other priests, the idol of Saralamma departed Kannepalli around 7:00 PM. Thousands of devotees lined the route, dancing to drumbeats and seeking blessings as the procession crossed the Jampanna Vagu stream.

State Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Danasari Anasuya (Seethakka), along with District Collector Diwakar T.S. and Government Whip Adluri Laxman, offered special prayers. In a display of cultural immersion, Minister Seethakka joined locals in traditional tribal dances, heightening the festive spirit.

The procession reached the Gaddelu at approximately 12:30 AM. Under the guidance of the priests, Goddess Saralamma, accompanied by Govindarajulu and Pagididda Raju, was ceremoniously installed on the platform. With the first phase successfully completed, attention now turns to the arrival of Goddess Sammakka today, an event that draws millions of pilgrims from across the country.