Orugallu Andhalu - History & Cultures

Published by Orugallu Andhalu Introduction Among India’s oldest surviving folk traditions, the Nakashi art of Telangana  stands out for its vivid storytelling, brilliant colors, and deep historical roots. Practiced through both   Cheriyal scroll paintings   and hand-carved wooden figurines , this art form represents the cultural memory of villages, tribes, occupations, festivals, and mythology. Even today, this rare craft is preserved by just a few families — mainly in Cheriyal (Siddipet district), Jagtial, Korutla, Metpally, and Nirmal  — making it a priceless heritage that needs respect and preservation. The Roots of Nakashī – 800 Years Back in Time Historically, Nakashī artists trace their origins to the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. According to local legends, the craftsmen were brought to the Telangana region nearly 800 years ago  during  Kakatiya Reign of the southern india, who were known for supporting temple art, craft guilds, a...

Published by Orugallu Andhalu The Medaram Sammakka Saralamma Vanadevatalu Maha Jatara, one of the world’s largest tribal gatherings and the biggest cultural festival of Telangana, will be celebrated from January 28 to January 31, 2026. The festival dates were finalized in the traditional manner by the Koya priests, who are the hereditary guardians of this sacred Vana Devata worship. The Medaram Jatara attracts crores of devotees every two years and is widely known as the “Telangana Kumbh Mela.” Medaram Jatara 2026 Dates & Daily Schedule  January 28, 2026 (Wednesday) The Maha Jatara begins with the arrival of: • Sarakka (Saralamma) • Govindaraju (her son-in-law) • Pagididda Raju (her husband) They reach the Gaddelu (sacred platforms) of Medaram around 6:00 PM, marking the official start of the festival.   January 29, 2026 (Thursday) This is the most auspicious day. Around 6:00 PM, Sammakka, the forest goddess of Chilakalagutta, arrives at the Gadde amidst: • Gu...

Published by Orugallu Andhalu  Published by Orugallu Andhalu Exploring the divine heritage and temple history of South India. Introduction In the serene foothills of the Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh lies one of India’s oldest and most sacred Shaiva temples — the Mahanandi Temple. This divine site is where Lord Shiva is believed to have manifested himself to bless his devoted follower, Nandi, making him his eternal vehicle (Vahana). Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Mahanandeeswara Swamy, named after his devotee Nandi — a symbol of divine gratitude and eternal devotion. The Origin and Sacred Significance According to ancient scriptures and local legends, Nandi performed intense penance (Tapasya) in the forests of Nallamala seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings. Moved by Nandi’s devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him and granted him divinity. This sacred event sanctified the region, and the place came to be known as Mahanandi, “the great Nandi.” Situated in Mahanandi...

Published by Orugallu Andhalu Just outside Hyderabad, along the Warangal Highway, lies a hillock that carries a powerful local goddess and even more powerful devotion. Gattu Maisamma Temple, located near Ghatkesar, is one of the most visited village goddess shrines around the city. Whether it’s for peace, protection, new beginnings or family welfare, thousands of devotees climb this small hill every week to seek blessings from Maisamma, the fierce and caring village guardian deity. Who is Gattu Maisamma? In Telangana, Maisamma is considered a form of Mahakali or Grama Devatha, the village-protecting mother. Whenever a village faces drought, diseases, or seeks well-being, people turn to Maisamma. At Ghatkesar, she is lovingly called “Gattu Maisamma”, because her temple is located on a small hill (gattu). For many devotees around Ghatkesar, Keesara, Bogaram, Korremula and even Hyderabad city, this is their go-to temple for vows, prayers and bonam offerings.  Origin & Local B...

Published by Orugallu Andhalu Maisigandi Maisamma Temple Kadthal- A Divine Landmark on the Srisailam Highway Just a little drive away from Hyderabad, along the Srisailam Highway, lies a fast-growing spiritual landmark that has become the pride of Telangana’s Banjara community. *Maisigandi Maisamma Mandiram*, located in Kadthal Mandal’s Maisigandi village, is one of those temples where tradition, folk culture, and divine energy blend beautifully. A Village Blessed by Ammavaru Maisigandi is a small settlement on the highway, but the temple standing at its entrance has turned the entire area into a vibrant devotional spot. Dedicated to *Goddess Maisamma (Mahakali)*, this shrine carries centuries-old tribal belief and continues to evolve with every passing year. The temple owes its growth to *Panthu Naik*, the revered Banjara leader who served as the founder trustee. He spent his entire life developing and protecting this sacred place. After his demise, his family members continue to ...

Published by Orugallu Andhalu The Medaram Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, held in the Mulugu district of Telangana, is widely regarded as one of the largest tribal gatherings in the world. Millions of devotees visit this forest region once every two years to honor Sammakka and her daughter Saralamma, revered as powerful forest deities by the Koya tribe. Unlike many modern narratives that exaggerate or invent dramatic battle stories, the Koya elders, traditional caretakers, and hereditary priest families emphasize a simpler and far more meaningful truth. The origins of this Jatara are deeply rooted in nature, tribal heritage, and centuries-old customs that have been passed down through oral tradition. This article presents a *completely authentic, verified, elder-approved account* of the Sammakka Saralamma tradition, including its origins at Bayyakkapeta, the shift to Medaram in 1935, the significance of Chilukalagutta, and the sacred Vanam ritual. Origins at Bayyakkapeta: The Birthplac...