Asia’s biggest tribal extravaganza, the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, is set to take off from Jan 28–31 in Medaram, Telangana, expecting a jaw-dropping 3 crore pilgrims! Here are the scenes already giving goosebumps:Here are fierce Koya tribal women carrying massive loads of ‘bangaram’ (jaggery) offerings — weighing as much as their own bodies — in devotion to the mother-daughter goddesses who inspired it all!
The TTD, which administers the temple, has launched an investigation, utilizing CCTV footage and the vehicle’s registration number (TN 83T6705) to identify the individual. TTD board member G. Bhanu Prakash Reddy echoed Singh’s sentiments, alleging the incident could be a “deliberate attempt to provoke religious tensions,” possibly orchestrated by political rivals like the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP
The Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam is one of India’s oldest religious institutions with a legacy deeply rooted in Vedic traditions. The appointment of its junior pontiff is considered a significant milestone that ensures the continuity of its spiritual and cultural heritage. With this announcement, devotees and scholars look forward to the contributions of the new acharya to further enrich the legacy of the Peetam.
Over the centuries, devotees from across India have traveled to Bhadrachalam to witness the celestial wedding and receive the sacred Mutyala Talambralu, believed to bring marital harmony and prosperity. The mixture is prepared meticulously, using pearls procured from Hyderabad’s markets and blending them with traditional ingredients.
Despite their sacred status, the cows face harsh living conditions, often confined to overcrowded enclosures with inadequate space. Reports suggest cow mortality rates have risen, with some sources claiming over 100 deaths in three months, largely due to heat, insufficient veterinary care, and substandard fodder.
The young Mark Shankar sustained burns on his hands and legs and inhaled smoke during a fire that broke out while he attended a summer camp on April 8. The harrowing experience prompted Anna, a Russian Orthodox Christian by faith, to turn to Lord Venkateshwara in prayer. She vowed to dedicate her hair to the deity if her son recovered and returned home safely.
The previous Chief Minister had attended the festival only during the first two years of his tenure. The participation of the current Chief Minister in the event marks a significant gesture that resonated with devotees. Adding to the splendor of the occasion, Pattu Vastrams (silk garments) were offered by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The chariot, an integral part of the centuries-old festival, was being pulled by devotees as part of the religious tradition. Organizers have faced criticism for alleged negligence in ensuring safety measures during the procession. Police have registered a case of death due to negligence and are investigating the incident.
The festival, held every 12 years, holds special significance this year due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs once every 144 years. This unique cosmic event provided an exceptional opportunity for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with the divine. The convergence of the Maha Kumbh with Maha Shivratri further amplified its spiritual impact, with devotees believing that taking a dip during this period cleanses sins from multiple lifetimes and brings one closer to moksha (liberation).
The NGT’s principal bench, comprising chairperson Justice Prakash Srivastava, judicial member Justice Sudhir Agarwal, and expert member A Senthil Vel, had earlier directed the UPPCB and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to take water samples and publish the results on their websites by January 31 and February 28.
