Devotee rush intensifies at Medaram after Sammakka’s arrival

Families spanning three generations were a common sight

MEDARAM

The Medaram tribal shrine has been witnessing a heavy influx of devotees since the arrival of Goddess Sammakka on Thursday night.

Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Danasari Anasuya Seethakka and District Collector T.S. Divakara have been closely monitoring the arrangements, with officials taking steps to ensure smooth darshan for pilgrims arriving from across the country.

Large number of women devotees were seen standing in long queues, carrying jaggery blocks on their heads and children on their waists. Families spanning three generations were a common sight, reflecting the deep-rooted tradition associated with the Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara. The Jatara commemorates the valour and sacrifice of the mother-daughter duo, who are believed to have fought against the mighty Kakatiyas and were martyred.

The expansion of the temple premises, including newly developed covered queue lines, has largely helped in easing crowd movement and facilitating darshan.

However, an alleged lapse in crowd management led to tense moments on Thursday night following Sammakka’s arrival from Chilakalagutta, as devotees gathered outside the designated queue lines, resulting in commotion and a near-stampede situation.