Sammakka fest gets nod for R-Day parade

Hyderabad: One of the biggest Tribal festivals in India – ‘Sammakka Saralamma Jatara’ which is organised in Warangal every two years will adorn the Rajpath when the Telangana tableaux will be displayed at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26.

The Union ministry of Defence gave nod to the Telangana government to showcase the Jatara but suggested certain changes in the design it had submitted. The Telangana government had sent three concepts, Bathukamma festival, Sammakka Sarakka, and Ramappa temple for consideration.

Telangana government wanted the Centre to give its consent for the display of Batukamma with a view to promote the festival at national and international level so that it can get brand image for the new State. But, the officials said the Centre asked them to develop the theme on the jatara only. It was second time that the government unsuccessfully tried to promote Batukamma though tableau. Last year, Bonlau festival was displayed at the parade.

State I&PR Director Subhash told The Hans India the Union ministry suggested some changes and also improvements in the size and theme before accepting the proposal to showcase the jatara in the parade.

Sources said that the Information and Public Relations department roped in several agencies including State Tribal Welfare and Tourism departments to develop the theme which will be reviewed by the official committee of the Union ministry before giving its final nod. Commissioner I&PR Navin Mittal who is now in New Delhi is holding consultation with government and other agencies to give final touches to the design of the tableau.

The officials said considering the selection of jatara as an opportunity, government is making all arrangements to promote the tribal festival to be held in February at national level and attract tourists from across the country.

By:Patan Afzal Babu