Massive crowds flock for darshan at revamped site

The Sammakka Saralamma Medaram Maha Jatara 2026, Asia's largest tribal festival and often dubbed the state's Kumbh Mela, is drawing record-breaking crowds to Medaram in Mulugu district. With massive influxes of devotees converging from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and beyond, the four-day biennial event (January 28–31, 2026) during Magha Pournami is witnessing unprecedented footfall, expected to surpass 3 crores overall—higher than the previous 2 crores—with lakhs already present and peaks anticipated on key days.

To handle the surging crowds effectively, the government has implemented robust measures including scientifically designed queue lines capable of withstanding massive rushes for smooth, hassle-free darshan with minimal waiting times; permanent stands and stone-constructed shrines replacing temporary setups; and modern facilities ranging from widened four-lane roads, shaded sheds, watch towers, inns, and extensive parking across 1,418 acres in 42 locations to advanced medical camps, 108 ambulances, bike ambulances, and emergency services at Jampanna Vagu.

A significant investment of Rs 251 crores has transformed the site into a durable, heritage-rich destination. Of this, Rs 101 crores went toward shrine expansion using 4,000 tons of granite for structures like a 271 sq m Prakaram with 46 pillars, a circular gadde with 8 pillars, and a 50-ft welcome arch. The highlight remains 32 granite pillars etched with over 7,000 sculptures—depicting Koya clan history, customs, wildlife (tigers, deer, elephants, peacocks), and around 750 family names—drawn from 930-year-old Koyala palm-leaf texts, preserving tribal legacy for generations.

The fair area is zoned into 8 zones and 42 sectors, manned by 42,027 personnel from 21 departments with walkie-talkie coordination. Enhanced security features AI drones, SDRF teams, firefighters, and swimmers. A plastic-free initiative aligns with tribal reverence for nature as sacred. Digital support includes the Medaram Jatara 2026 app, website, and ‘My Medaram’ WhatsApp chatbot for real-time updates on parking, medical aid, toilets, SOS, and missing persons.

Devotees laud the seamless experience: efficient queues guided by police and volunteers, reduced traffic bottlenecks, abundant drinking water, sanitation, shaded areas, and prompt medical response. Minister Seethakka emphasized all routes leading to Medaram, with deity arrivals (Saralamma, Govindaraju, Pagiddidda Raju on Jan 28; Sammakka on Jan 29) leading to grand processions, peak prayers on Jan 30, and Vanapravesh on Jan 31. She urged responsible, family-oriented devotion for a peaceful event.