Manyamkonda Jatara is an inter-state religious festival celebrated by the communities of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. This event, which involves the transportation of deities across state lines, recently concluded peacefully in a region known for left-wing extremism (LWE) activities. The festival’s successful completion without any incidents stands as a testament to the effective management and cooperation between the local authorities and the devotees.
Overview of Manyamkonda Jatara
Manyamkonda Jatara is a village festival that has significant religious importance for the local communities. The festival’s primary event is the shifting of idols between the two states, symbolizing a shared cultural heritage. This year, the idols of four deities—Bapiraju, Kannamaraju, Muthyalamma, and Pothuraju—were transported from Malkangiri in Odisha to Polluru village in the Mothugudem Mandal of East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. The procession involves crossing the Sileru River, which serves as a natural boundary between the two states.
The Procession and Rituals
The journey of the deities began at around 8 a.m., with the idols being carried over the river to reach their destination in Andhra Pradesh. Upon arrival, a ceremonial bath was conducted under the Polluru waterfalls, a ritual that holds great significance for the worshippers. Following this purification process, the idols were prepared for Darshan, allowing the devotees to pay their respects and seek blessings from the deities.
Devotee Participation and Activities
The Manyamkonda Jatara attracted approximately 10,000 visitors throughout the day. Devotees from various regions came to have darshan and participate in the festivities. The event is not only a religious gathering but also a time for community bonding and cultural exchange. After the day-long celebration, the procession with the idols made its return journey to Malkangiri, marking the end of the festival’s main activities.
Security Measures and Official Involvement
Given that the festival took place in an area affected by LWE, security was a top priority for the organizers and local authorities. The East Godavari district police were present to oversee the event and ensure the safety of all participants. The police team was led by Superintendent of Police (SP) Adnan Nayeem Asmi, who played a crucial role in maintaining order during the festival.
In addition to the police force, Malkangiri district collector Vijay and several other senior officials were involved in the event. Their presence underscored the importance of the festival and the commitment of the government to support cultural traditions while safeguarding the public.
Preparedness for Emergencies
To address any potential emergencies, a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) team was kept on standby. This proactive measure ensured that any untoward incident could be swiftly managed, minimizing risks to the attendees and the sanctity of the festival. The readiness of the SDRF team highlighted the comprehensive approach taken by the authorities in organizing the Manyamkonda Jatara.
The peaceful conclusion of the Manyamkonda Jatara in an LWE-infested area is a positive sign of the enduring strength of cultural practices and the ability of communities to come together in harmony. The meticulous planning and coordination between different agencies and the community itself played a pivotal role in the successful execution of this significant religious festival.
