Fervour marks Manyam Jatara

Maredumilli: The three-day Manyam Jatara which enthralled the tribals culminated in a pulsating manner in Vana Vihari in Maredumilli in East Godavari on Monday as tribals from all over the State enjoyed thrilling evenings for the last three days and bid adieu to their compatriots.

The last day of the festival witnessed exemplary performances of tribal artistes from areas in East Godavari agency. There was a performance by the Kommu Dance artistes of Koya Dora tribe from Gangavaram and another performance by Konda Reddy tribe artistes who danced to the tune of 'Yerra raikalu Ekkedive Pilla' and captivated the attention of the audiences. Most of the dances and songs depicted the beauty of the nature and tribal lifestyle. Students of the tribal welfare schools in the district added attraction to the festival.

It was a great site to see when tribal groups were dancing and singing to the tunes of the folklore literature. Most of the dances performed by the tribal artistes depicted the traditional tribal festivals like Flour festival, Beans festival, sowing and cultivation.

People of different age groups enjoyed the Manyam Jatara and tribals showed great interest in the tribal traditions and culture and travelled hundreds of kilometres to exchange their culture with the tribals who came from all parts of the State. The highlight of the Jatara was the performance of Vandemataram Srinivas who enthralled the audiences with his sizzling performance.

He sang songs which depict tribal culture, traditions and sorrows. The participation of large number tribals and showcasing tribal culture through dances and songs made the Jatara a great success. The Manyam Jatara has been a testimony that tribal culture and traditions are still surviving without the assistance from the governments.