The biennial tribal festival is India’s second-largest fair, after the Kumbh Mela, which is celebrated by the Koya tribe for four days. This year it is being celebrated from 21st-24th February 2024, in collaboration with the Tribal Welfare Department, Government of Telangana.
Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Mr. Arjun Munda, expressed happiness at the intense spiritual joy and vibrant atmosphere of Medaram Jatara, while offering prayer to the deities of Sammakka-Saralamma, seeking blessings for the well-being of all and the prosperity of our country. He emphasized that it symbolizes ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ with devotees pouring-in from different States across the country.
The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs has sanctioned Rs. 2.30 crores for diverse activities related to Medaram Jatara 2024. These activities encompass the promotion of Medaram tribal culture and heritage, a documentary on the festival, exhibition-cum-sale of tribal arts, crafts, and cuisine, a National Tribal Dance festival, and competitions for tribal youth and students. Notably, the festival was declared a State Festival in 1996 due to its widespread appeal and auspicious significance.
The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs released Rs. 2 crore for Jataras held in 2018 and 2020, and Rs. 2.26 crore in 2022. The funds were used to improve the Medaram Tribal Museum and Cultural Complex, among other things. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs’ ongoing support for this festival aims to raise awareness and foster peaceful relationships between guests and Telangana tribal groups.
