Sammakka Sarakka Jatara

The Prime Minister recently announced for establishment of National Turmeric Board, Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University among other projects in Telangana.

About Sammakka Sarakka Jatara:

• It is a biennial event that showcases the rich traditions and spiritual beliefs of the tribal community.
• It is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the Koya tribe, one of the indigenous communities of Telangana.
• It is considered one of the largest tribal festivals in Asia.
• It is held in honour of Sammakka and Saralamma, revered as protectors of the Koya people and their land.
• Devotees embark on a pilgrimage to Medaram, a remote village in Telangana.
  • They come to seek the blessings of Sammakka and Saralamma for their well-being.
• The festival involves a series of unique rituals, including the worship of wooden idols of the goddesses and the offering of jaggery, a special sweet, as a symbol of devotion.

Historical Background:

• Medaraju, a tribal chieftain of Polavasa, adopted a baby named Sammakka and married her to Pagidigidda Raju, a tribal leader in Medaram who was a feudatory of Kakatiya rulers.
• When Kakatiya kings demanded taxes during a drought, Pagidigidda Raju refused, leading to a war.
• Sammakka fought bravely, despite the loss of her husband, daughter, and son.
• She vanished into Chilakalagutta hillock, leaving behind a container of vermilion.
• Locals believe she became a protective goddess, symbolizing the traditions and heritage of the Koya tribal people.
  • Koya tribe is found in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

About National Turmeric Board:

• The National Turmeric Board will work towards increasing the cultivation of turmeric, a key agricultural product in the region.
• It will focus on improving the quality of turmeric produced, making it more competitive in domestic and international markets.
• It will facilitate access to larger markets and export opportunities, thereby boosting the income of farmers.
• It will encourage research and development in turmeric farming techniques and processing.

Ref: Source