Gandhari Maisamma Jatara ends in Telangana’s Mancherial

A praja darbar was organised as part of the fair

Mancherial: The three-day long annual Gandhari Maisamma Jatara, an important religious and cultural affair of members of Rodda clan from Naikpod community, ended at the historic Gandhari khilla on the outskirts of Bokkalagutta village in Mandamarri mandal on Sunday.

A praja darbar or grievance redressal programme was organised as part of the fair. Local MLA Dr G Vivek graced the event and assured to address grievances. He vowed to develop the fort into a major tourist spot by creating basic amenities and cottages. He visited the deity and performed special prayers. He was felicitated by the organisers of the fair.

Under the guidance of priests, the members of Rodda clan ceremoniously worshipped the deity by performing Mahapuja, the main event of the fair on Saturday at around 11 pm. They performed certain traditional rituals at the idol of the deity situated atop of the hillock. They drew Patnam, a unique drawing pattern to appease the goddess.

The Roddas then allowed aboriginal tribals to take darshan of the deity from midnight onwards.

Cultural programmes and dance shows such as Thappetagullu and Pillanagrovi by artistes of Naikpod community were presented, enthralling audiences. The sleepy fort, a haven of various nocturnal lives and wild animals, came alive.

Not only Naikpods, but also Raj Gonds, Koya, Kolam and other tribal communities from several parts of Telangana, neighbouring Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh congregated at the fort and offered special prayers to the deity.

They dined under the trees and soak in nature. They visited different parts of the picturesque fort.

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