Tirupati Gangamma Jatara is an annual folk festival that is hosted in Andhra Pradesh’s Tirupati district. The week-long fest is generally celebrated between the first and second weeks of May.
It is celebrated to offer prayers to the Goddess Gangamma, the Gramadevata of Tirupati, who is believed to protect the region and is considered as the sister of God Venkateshwara Balaji. Reportedly, the pilgrims who visit Tirupati during the Gangamma Jatara experience a strange feeling. During this time, one will be able to spot children to adults dressed in unique costumes reaching the temple. Devotees worship the Goddess in different costumes for the 8 days. What is truly interesting to witness during this folk festival is that the local people eat food that the pilgrims bring to the city.
One of the ancient practices that is still followed is for devotees to carry a pagoda-like structure called Sapparalu, while walking to the temple. It is decorated with bright colours and is carried on the shoulder. The last day of the fest sees men dressing up as women to visit the temple and offer prayers. The Tirupati Gangamma Jatara was introduced centuries back to praise the brave act of the Goddess slaying the local chieftain as a punishment for outraging the modesty of women. With time, the ritual of men cross-dressing as women has now turned into a fashion statement as they drape themselves in fine sarees, add wigs, and apply make-up and fancy goggles.
It is believed that in the Avilala village of Tirupati, the chieftain was an evil person filled with lust and anytime he saw a girl, he would kidnap them. Amid this scenario, Jaganmata emerged as Gangamma in the Kaikala castes. As per the beliefs, Gangamma was infatuated with the chieftain, who was warned that if he ever married her, his life would be over. Knowing this, the man ran away from her and hid in a tree trunk. Gangamma’s mother tried to lure him out under disguise but failed. On the second day, Gangamma tried to bring him out of hiding but failed.
Finally, on the last day, she came in the disguise of a nobleman and killed him.
Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Comments
0 comment