The biennial Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, often hailed as the “Telangana Kumbh Mela,” is set to commence on January 28, 2026. This four-day spiritual congregation is expected to draw nearly 3 crore devotees from across India, including neighboring states like Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. The Telangana government has sanctioned ₹251 crore for comprehensive arrangements, focusing on permanent infrastructure, renovated sacred platforms (Gaddelu), and extensive devotee amenities to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.
The festival follows a sacred four-day ritualistic schedule. On the first day (Jan 28), the deities Saralamma, Pagididda Raju, and Govinda Raju will be brought to the Gaddelu. The spiritual peak occurs on the second day (Jan 29) with the arrival of Goddess Sammakka from Chilakalagutta amidst traditional gun salutes and tribal rituals. The third day (Jan 30) is the busiest, as millions offer ‘Bangaram’ (jaggery) equal to their body weight to the goddesses. The fair concludes on January 31 with the Vanapravesham (return to the forest) of the deities.
To manage the massive influx, the state has deployed 42,000 personnel from 21 departments and 13,000 police officers equipped with AI-based drone surveillance (TG Quest) and facial recognition systems. Transportation is bolstered by 4,000 TGSRTC buses, 28 special trains, and helicopter services from Hanamkonda (starting at ₹4,800 for an aerial view and ₹35,999 for a VIP round trip). Additionally, 30 health camps with over 5,000 medical staff and 200 expert swimmers at Jampanna Vagu have been stationed to ensure the safety of all pilgrims.
