Medaram Tribal Festival: A visiting Maori tribal group from New Zealand brought a powerful moment of international cultural connection to Telangana this week by performing the traditional Haka dance at the Medaram Sammakka-Saralamma shrine. The appearance took place during the ongoing Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, one of India’s most significant tribal gatherings, and drew widespread attention from devotees, officials, and cultural observers.

A rare moment of indigenous solidarity

The delegation, representing the Ngati Rongomai iwi, travelled to Medaram as part of an organised cultural exchange between India and New Zealand. Their presence at the sacred site marked a rare instance of indigenous traditions from two distant regions coming together in a shared spiritual space. The performance was received with quiet reverence followed by applause from the assembled crowd.

Haka brings rhythm and meaning to Medaram

The Haka, known globally as a ceremonial expression of strength, unity, and identity, was performed with traditional chants and synchronised movements. As the dancers advanced and stamped the ground in unison, the energy of the festival briefly shifted, blending Maori cultural expression with the deeply rooted tribal traditions of Telangana. Observers described the moment as both striking and respectful, reflecting shared values rather than spectacle.

Warm welcome from state leadership

Telangana Minister Anasuya Seethakka formally welcomed the visiting performers and noted the common threads linking tribal communities across continents. Speaking at the venue, she highlighted how indigenous cultures, regardless of geography, often share a close relationship with nature, community memory, and ancestral heritage. Her remarks underlined the broader purpose of the exchange beyond performance alone.

Cultural exchange beyond borders

Officials said the visit formed part of an Indo–New Zealand initiative designed to promote dialogue among indigenous groups. By bringing Maori representatives to Medaram during the Jatara, organisers aimed to create a space for mutual learning and respect. Festival organisers observed that the response from devotees showed a strong appreciation for cultural diversity presented in a sincere and dignified manner.

Significance of the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara

The Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara is held once every two years and is widely regarded as Asia’s largest tribal festival. Millions of devotees travel to Medaram from across Telangana and neighbouring states to pay homage to Sammakka and Sarakka, revered figures in local tribal history. The festival is deeply rooted in oral traditions that commemorate resistance, sacrifice, and community resilience.

Government focus on infrastructure and facilities

Telangana Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy said the current Jatara is the second to be held since the formation of the present State Government. Addressing the media at Medaram, he stated that the administration under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has prioritised permanent development works at the site. These efforts include improved roads, sanitation, water supply, and crowd management facilities aimed at easing the experience of devotees.

Push for national recognition

The State Government has also renewed its appeal to the Union Government to grant the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara official recognition as a National Festival. Minister Srinivasa Reddy expressed optimism that recent visits by Union Ministers to Medaram could help move the long-standing proposal forward. He said national status would further support preservation efforts and improve infrastructure planning for future editions.

A moment with lasting impact

For many attendees, the Maori Haka performance stood out as a reminder that indigenous traditions continue to find relevance in a globalised world. While the Jatara remains firmly grounded in local belief systems, this cross-cultural moment added a new layer of meaning, reinforcing the idea that cultural respect and shared heritage can bridge vast distances.