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Maori Tribe's Haka Dance Enthralls Telangana Ahead of Asia's Largest Tribal Fair

A Maori tribal delegation from New Zealand visited Medaram in Telangana, performing their traditional Haka dance ahead of the Sammakka-Saralamma Jathara. The visit, part of an Indo-New Zealand cultural exchange, was facilitated by Minister Seethakka, who joined the dance and emphasized the universal nature of tribal culture. The biennial Jathara, beginning January 28, is considered Asia's largest tribal festival, expecting over 1.5 crore devotees. Governor Jishnu Dev Varma noted the state government's sanction of Rs 251 crore for permanent infrastructure for the massive event.

Key Points: Maori Delegation Performs Haka at Telangana's Medaram Jathara

  • Maori perform traditional Haka dance
  • Part of Indo-New Zealand cultural exchange
  • Jathara is Asia's largest tribal festival
  • Over 1.5 crore devotees expected
2 min read

Maori tribals from New Zealand visit Telangana's Medaram ahead of Jathara

Maori tribal representatives from New Zealand visited Medaram, performing the Haka and marking a unique cultural exchange ahead of the Sammakka-Saralamma Jathara.

"Tribal culture is universal... tribal communities across the world share a deep bond with nature. - Minister Seethakka"

Hyderabad, Jan 26

Maori tribal representatives from New Zealand visited Medaram in Telangana's Mulugu district on Monday, ahead of the Sammakka-Saralamma Jathara scheduled to begin on January 28.

On the occasion, the Maori delegation performed their traditional Haka dance, a powerful ceremonial performance traditionally used to motivate tribal warriors before going into battle.

According to officials, the visit by tribal representatives from New Zealand marked a unique moment of international tribal cultural exchange.

The vibrant performance drew the attention of devotees and visitors, adding a special cultural dimension to the Jathara, they said.

The visit of the Maori delegation is part of the Indo-New Zealand cultural exchange programme, undertaken at the initiative of Minister for Panchayat Raj, Seethakka.

She joined the Maori artists in their dance, encouraged them, and warmly welcomed the delegation.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Seethakka observed that tribal culture is universal in nature and that tribal communities across the world share a deep bond with nature and forests.

She said that such exchanges strengthen mutual understanding and respect among indigenous communities globally.

Later, the Maori delegation was taken for darshan of the tribal deities at Medaram.

The minister explained the significance of Sammakka and Saralamma in tribal traditions and culture and also felicitated the visiting guests as a mark of respect and goodwill.

The Sammakka-Saralamma Jathara, regarded as Asia's largest and most unique tribal festival, is scheduled to be held from January 28 to 31.

More than 1.5 crore devotees from Telangana, as well as from Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha, are expected to participate in the biennial fair.

Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma also referred to the tribal fair in his speech on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day.

He said that the State government has accorded utmost importance to the biennial Medaram Maha Jathara, sanctioning Rs 251 crore for permanent infrastructure while respecting tribal customs, in contrast to the temporary arrangements made in the past.

He added that over two crore devotees are expected to take part in the Jathara.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
This is fantastic cultural diplomacy. The Maori and our tribal communities both have such a deep, spiritual connection to nature and their ancestors. These exchanges are more meaningful than many formal diplomatic meetings. Hope this leads to more such programs.
A
Aman W
While I appreciate the gesture, I hope the focus remains on the devotees and the sanctity of the Jathara. Sometimes these VIP visits and cultural shows can disrupt the actual religious proceedings for common people. The ₹251 crore for permanent infrastructure is the real good news here.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has witnessed the Haka in New Zealand, I can only imagine how powerful it must have felt in the context of Medaram. Two ancient warrior cultures meeting – it gives me goosebumps! This is the kind of positive, people-to-people connection the world needs more of.
K
Karthik V
Asia's largest tribal festival! More than 2 crore devotees expected... these numbers are mind-boggling. Glad the state government is investing in permanent facilities. The scale of Indian cultural and religious gatherings is truly unmatched in the world. Feeling proud of our diverse traditions.
M
Meera T
The Minister joining the dance is the best part! It shows genuine respect and breaks formal barriers. Our tribal arts and festivals are our real cultural wealth. Hope the Maori guests enjoyed the darshan and felt the powerful energy of Medaram. A memorable start to the Jathara indeed.

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