sammakka sarakka jatara

The Sammakka Sarakka Jatara, held every two years at Medaram, is one of the largest tribal festivals in the world. It celebrates the spirit of resistance, sacrifice, and protection embodied by Sammakka and Sarakka. Thousands of devotees gather to pay homage, seeking blessings and celebrating the legacy of these legendary women.

Their story is a powerful testament to courage and selflessness, inspiring generations of devotees.

Around 13th century, Sammakka appeared in the forest as a radiant child. She was discovered by the tribal chieftains and raised by them. As she grew, she became a powerful leader, known for her bravery and wisdom. When the Kakatiya rulers imposed harsh taxes and invaded the Koya lands, Sammakka led her people in resistance. Despite fierce battles, she chose to sacrifice herself for the well-being of her tribe. Her disappearance is shrouded in mystery, believed to have transformed into a spirit, continuing to protect her people. Sammakka married Pagididda Raju, a Kakatiya chief, and they had three children: Sarakka, Nagulamma, and Jampanna.

A severe drought struck the region, causing the mighty Godavari River to dry up. Pagididda Raju refused to pay tribute to King Pratapa Rudra, who then sent his army to subdue the tribals and collect the tribute. The Koya tribe fought bravely at "Sampenga Vagu" (later Jampanna Vagu) but were eventually overpowered by the Kakatiya army. Pagididda Raju, his daughters Sarakka and Nagulamma, and Sarakka's husband Govinda Raju lost their lives in battle. Jampanna also perished in the same stream, which was later named Jampanna Vagu in his memory.

Upon hearing this tragic news, Sammakka joined the battle and inflicted significant damage on the Kakatiya army. The Kakatiya Prime Minister, impressed by her bravery, proposed peace and offered her a place as the chief queen in the emperor’s harem. Sammakka rejected the offer, vowing to continue fighting to avenge her family's deaths. She was eventually wounded, but she cursed the Kakatiya dynasty to perish before disappearing into the forest.

The grieving Koya tribe searched for Sammakka but found only a red ochre box (containing vermilion), her bangles, and the paw prints of a full-grown tigress—the same place where she was found as an infant. The Kakatiya dynasty soon fell. Since then, the Koyas, Waddaras, and other Indian tribes and castes have regularly held festivals in honor of Sammakka and Sarakka.

The festival underscores the spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and unity among tribal communities. The legend of Sammakka and Sarakka is celebrated with great fervor, symbolizing their divine protection and the enduring courage of the tribes.