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Maori Haka at Medaram Jatara: Global Tribal Unity in Telangana

A Maori tribal delegation from New Zealand performed the traditional Haka dance at the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara in Medaram, Telangana, energising the festival and symbolising global indigenous solidarity. The performance was part of an Indo-New Zealand cultural exchange program aimed at fostering mutual understanding among tribal communities. Separately, British Deputy High Commissioner Gareth Wynn Owen visited the temple, offered prayers, and was briefed on the festival's significance by local officials. The Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, held biennially, is Asia's largest tribal festival, honouring legendary figures and attracting millions of devotees.

Key Points: Maori Haka Performed at Sammakka Saralamma Jatara in Telangana

  • Maori Haka performed at tribal festival
  • British diplomat offers prayers
  • Festival celebrates indigenous resistance
  • Part of Indo-NZ cultural exchange
  • Asia's largest tribal gathering
2 min read

British Deputy High Commissioner offers prayers at Sammakka Sarakka in Mulugu, Telangana

British Deputy High Commissioner visits, Maori delegation performs Haka at Asia's largest tribal festival in Medaram, highlighting global indigenous cultural exchange.

"The sight of the haka being performed on the sacred land of Medaram stood as a striking symbol of cross-cultural solidarity."

Mulugu, January 30

Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner, Hyderabad, visited the Sri Sammakka-Saralamma Temple at Medaram and offered prayers.

Dressed in traditional handloom attire, he participated in the Thulabaram ritual.

He was accompanied by Minister Seethakka and the District Collector, who briefed him on the significance of the Medaram Maha Jatara and the arrangements made for devotees.

Earlier, a Maori tribal delegation from New Zealand performed the traditional Haka dance at Medaram's Sammakka-Saralamma shrine in Telangana, India, marking a significant global cultural exchange.

The performance, part of the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara festival, showcased the shared values of indigenous communities worldwide.

The Maori performers from the Ngati Rongomai iwi were welcomed by Telangana Minister Anasuya Seethakka, who highlighted the universal nature of tribal cultures and their deep connection to nature.

The Haka dance, a ceremonial performance symbolising courage and unity, energised the festival and drew attention from devotees and visitors.As part of the cultural exchange, the Maori performed the traditional Haka, a powerful, rhythmic expression of identity, unity, and respect.

The performance, held in the presence of devotees and festival organisers, captivated the gathering and underscored the universal language of indigenous traditions. The sight of the haka being performed on the sacred land of Medaram stood as a striking symbol of cross-cultural solidarity.

The event was part of an Indo-New Zealand cultural exchange program aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and respect among indigenous communities. The Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, Asia's largest tribal festival, attracts millions of devotees from across India and beyond.

The Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, held once every two years, attracts millions of devotees from Telangana and neighbouring states. Rooted in tribal history and belief systems, the festival honours the legacy of Sammakka and Sarakka, who are remembered for their resistance and sacrifice. ANI)

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
Respect to the Deputy High Commissioner for participating in the Thulabaram ritual with such sincerity. It's heartening when foreign officials take the time to understand and respect our local traditions beyond just formal visits. Good cultural diplomacy.
R
Rahul R
The Maori Haka at Medaram! What a fantastic fusion of indigenous cultures. Both traditions are about courage, community, and connection to the land. This is the kind of soft power and cultural exchange India should promote more actively on the world stage.
A
Anjali F
While I appreciate the positive intent, I hope the focus remains on the festival's spiritual core for the millions of Adivasi devotees. Sometimes these high-profile visits can disrupt the sanctity. The arrangements should primarily serve the people who have kept this faith alive for generations.
K
Karthik V
Jai Sammakka Sarakka! 🚩 It's our pride, the largest tribal festival in Asia. Great to see it getting this kind of international recognition. Minister Seethakka briefing the officials is perfect—our own leaders should be the ones explaining our culture's depth.
D
David E
As someone living in Hyderabad, it's fascinating to see our local traditions become a point of global connection. The article mentions the handloom attire too—a nice touch promoting our textiles. Telangana's tribal culture is truly unique and deserves this spotlight.

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