The recent sanction of Rs 2.26 Crores by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs towards various activities related to Medaram Jathara 2022 has garnered attention. Medaram Jatara, a proud cultural symbol of the Koya tribe, is considered the second-largest fair in India, post the Kumbh Mela. This tribal event pays homage to the brave resistance of mother-daughter duo, Sammakka and Saralamma, against unfair law enforcement.
Medaram Jatara: The Festival’s Significance
Often referred to as Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, Medaram Jatara honors the struggle of a mother and daughter against an unjust law. This festival, celebrated in Telangana (a southern Indian state), commences at Medaram, nestled in the Tadvai Mandal of Warangal district.
Medaram is a secluded area within the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary – a significant part of Dandakaranya, known to be the largest surviving forest belt in the region. The festival happens biennially during the full moon day in February, which corresponds to the month of “Magha” in the Indian lunar calendar.
During the celebration, devotees offer ‘bangaram/gold’ equivalent to their weight to the goddess, followed by a holy bath in Jampanna Vagu, a tributary of the Godavari River. The festival achieved state recognition in 1996 and has since been celebrated as a State Festival.
Understanding the Koya Tribe
The Koya tribe, also known as ‘Dorala Sattam’ (Lords group) or ‘Putta Dora’ (original lords), is prominent in Telangana and recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in the state. Their presence also extends to the Telugu-speaking region of Andhra Pradesh. In their dialect, they identify themselves as ‘Koitur’.
Lifestyle and Livelihoods
The geographical habitat of the Koya Tribe is deeply intertwined with the Godavari and Sabari rivers, influencing their economic, social, and cultural lives significantly. Predominantly settled cultivators, their chief crops include Jowar, Ragi, Bajra, and other millets.
Language and Religion
Though many from the Koya tribe have adopted Telugu as their mother tongue, a segment continues to speak in the native Koya dialect. Their religious practices encompass reverence towards several deities like Lord Bhima, Korra Rajulu, Mamili, and Potaraju.
Festivals and Dance
Vijji Pandum (seeds charming festival) and Kondala Kolupu (a festival to appease hill deities) constitute the central festivals for the Koyas. A unique aspect of their culture is the vibrant Bison horn dance (Permakok ata), performed during these celebrations and marriage ceremonies.
Thus, the allocation of funds for Medaram Jathara 2022 by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs not only aids in preserving and celebrating the rich tribal heritage but also recognizes the Koya tribe’s significant contribution to India’s cultural diversity.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024