Hyderabad, Jan.13 (RAHNUMA): Minister for SC, ST, Disabled & Transgender Welfare Adluri Lakshman Kumar, Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Seethakka
stated that they anticipate around three crore devotees to attend the Medaram Sammakka and Saralamma Jathara, which is set to take place from January 28 to 31.
They emphasised the need for various government departments to collaborate effectively to ensure that attendees have a smooth experience.
Both Ministers Adluri Laxman Kumar and Seethakka convened a high-level review meeting regarding the Medaram Jatara at the Secretariat on Tuesday. The meeting included notable officials such as Chief Secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao, Special Chief Secretaries Arvind Kumar and Sabyasachi Ghosh, Additional DGs Vijay Kumar and Swati Lakra, department secretaries, Mulugu district collector Divakar, among others.
During the meeting, Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar noted that last year, the festival drew 1.5 crore visitors, and for the 2026 event, the government is preparing comprehensively with a significant budget of about Rs. 150 crore. He expressed confidence that this year will attract even more devotees.
Kumar urged the officials to organise the Sammakka-Saralamma Jathara in an exceptional manner, aiming to surpass even the Kumbh Mela, thereby enhancing the state’s national recognition. He emphasised that every official should take personal responsibility for the successful execution of the festival and ensure that all preparations are flawless.
Minister Seethakka shared that the Chief Minister has allocated ₹251 crore for this year’s festival preparations, with ₹150 crore designated for general arrangements and ₹101 crore for altar renovations.
She highlighted that ensuring a smooth darshan (viewing of the deity) for every devotee is a top priority. Seethakka also called for coordinated efforts across all departments to guarantee the success of the Maha Jatara.
Additionally, during the event, Ministers Seethakka and Laxman Kumar, alongside Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao, launched a special logo, app, and promotional videos developed by the Mulugu district administration for the Medaram Jatara.
