Union Budget 2024 Key Highlights - Viksit Bharat by 2047 - Vision 2047 Building India’s Future

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024-25 in the Lok Sabha today. 

Here are some key highlights:

1. Roadmap for ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047:

   The budget focuses on the government’s vision for a developed India by 2047.

2. Fiscal Deficit Target:

   The government aims to stick to the 5.1% fiscal deficit target for FY25.

3. Themes:

• Infrastructure and Housing: Expect a focus on infrastructure and housing development.
• Defence Sectors: Emphasis on defence spending.
• Job Creation: Fiscal prudence combined with capital expenditure to create jobs.
• Social Sector: Targeted spending to improve access to physical, social, and digital infrastructure.

Here are the key tax changes introduced in the Union Budget 2024-25:

1. Standard Deduction Increase:

   The standard deduction for salaried employees opting for the new tax regime has been raised from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. This change is expected to benefit around 4 crore salaried individuals and pensioners, allowing them to save up to ₹17,500 annually in taxes.

2. Family Pension Deduction:

   The deduction on family pension for pensioners has been enhanced from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000.

3. Revised Tax Slabs for New Regime:

   • Income up to ₹3 lakh will be tax-free.
   • ₹3-7 lakh income will be taxed at 5%.
   • ₹7-10 lakh income will be taxed at 10%.
   • ₹10-12 lakh income will be taxed at 15%.
   • ₹12-15 lakh income will be taxed at 20%.
   • Income above ₹15 lakh will be taxed at 30%.

4. National Pension System (NPS) Boost:

   The deduction limit for the employer’s contribution to the NPS has increased from 10% to 14%. This change covers government employees and private companies in the NPS.

5. Securities Transaction Tax (STT) and Capital Gains Tax:

• STT on Futures and Options contracts has been increased to 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively.
• Income received on the buyback of shares will now be taxed in the hands of the recipient.

The Union Budget 2024-25 has significant implications for the healthcare sector in India:

1. Cancer Treatment:

   Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman exempted three critical cancer drugs from customs duties, making them more affordable. Given the high cost of cancer treatments, this move aims to improve accessibility for patients. India ranks third globally in cancer cases, following China and the United States.

2. Healthcare Funding:

   The Health Ministry received an allocation of ₹90,958.63 crore, reflecting a 12.9% increase from the previous budget. The Department of Health and Family Welfare will receive ₹87,656.90 crore, and the Department of Health Research will receive ₹3,301.73 crore.

3. Infrastructure and Innovation:

   Changes to basic customs duty for X-ray tubes and flat panel detectors used in medical X-ray machines align with domestic capacity expansion. The budget emphasizes strengthening healthcare infrastructure and digital health initiatives.

The Union Budget 2024-25 places significant emphasis on infrastructure development in India. Here are the key highlights:

1. Capital Expenditure:

   The Central Government has allocated ₹11,11,111 crore for capital expenditure, which accounts for 3.4% of GDP. This investment will drive infrastructure growth and have a multiplier effect on the economy.

2. State Support:

   States are encouraged to provide similar scale support for infrastructure aligned with their development priorities. A provision of ₹1.5 lakh crore in long-term interest-free loans has been made to assist states.

3. Private Sector Participation:

   The budget promotes private sector investment in infrastructure through viability gap funding, supportive policies, and regulations. A market-based financing framework will also be introduced.

4. Recent Trends:

   While bank credit to infrastructure sectors has shown recovery (6.5% growth in FY24), the central role in funding large-scale projects remains with Union and State Governments. External commercial borrowings and capital market issuances also contribute to infrastructure financing.

The Union Budget 2024-25 has several implications for the healthcare sector in India:

1. Cancer Treatment: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman exempted three critical cancer drugs from customs duties, making them more affordable. Given the high cost of cancer treatments, this move aims to improve accessibility for patients. India ranks third globally in cancer cases, following China and the United States.
   
   
2. Healthcare Funding: The Health Ministry received an allocation of ₹90,958.63 crore, reflecting a 12.9% increase from the previous budget. The Department of Health and Family Welfare will receive ₹87,656.90 crore, and the Department of Health Research will receive ₹3,301.73 crore.
   
   
3. Infrastructure and Innovation: Changes to basic customs duty for X-ray tubes and flat panel detectors used in medical X-ray machines align with domestic capacity expansion. The budget emphasizes strengthening healthcare infrastructure and digital health initiatives.

Here are some key changes in the Union Budget 2024-25 that impact small businesses:

1. Start-up Tax Incentive:

   The start-up tax incentive will remain in effect until March 31, 2025. This measure aims to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation.

2. Bio-Manufacturing Scheme:

   A new scheme for bio-manufacturing will be launched to promote green growth. This initiative supports sustainable practices and economic development.

3. EV Ecosystem Expansion:

   The electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem will be strengthened, with support for manufacturing and charging infrastructure. This move aligns with India’s push toward cleaner mobility.

Here are the key highlights from the Union Budget 2024-25 related to education:

1. Financial Support and Education Loans:

   • The government will provide financial support for loans up to ₹10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions.
   • Additionally, e-vouchers with an interest subvention of 3% of the loan amount will be given directly to 1 lakh students annually.

2. Skilling Initiatives:

   • Internship Opportunities: A scheme will provide internship opportunities in 500 top companies to 1 crore youth over five years. Interns will receive an allowance of ₹5,000 per month and a one-time assistance of ₹6,000.
   • ITIs Upgrade: 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) will be upgraded using a hub-and-spoke model. Course content will align with industry needs, and new courses will be introduced.
   • Centrally Sponsored Skilling Scheme: A new centrally sponsored scheme will skill 20 lakh youth over five years in collaboration with state governments and industry.

3. Women Empowerment:

   • To promote women’s participation in the workforce, the government will set up working women hostels and establish creches in collaboration with industries.
   • The budget allocates more than ₹3 lakh crore for schemes benefiting women and girls, signalling a commitment to enhancing women’s role in economic development.

4. Healthcare Development:

• New medical colleges will be established in Bihar to improve healthcare infrastructure and access.

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Financial Benefits of Star Assure Policy - Star Health Insurance Company

Policy Introduction

Star Assure is a comprehensive health insurance policy offered by Star Health Insurance Company. It is designed to provide extensive coverage for various medical expenses, ensuring that policyholders and their families are financially protected during health emergencies. With a range of features and benefits, Star Assure aims to reduce out-of-pocket costs and offer peace of mind.

Eligibility

Individuals: Any individual between the ages of 18 and 65 years.
Families: Family floater plans cover the policyholder, spouse, and dependent children (up to 25 years).
Senior Citizens: Special plans are available for individuals above 65 years, ensuring lifelong renewability and continuous coverage.

Star Health Assure Insurance Policy Premium Chart

(Note: Premium rates are indicative and may vary based on specific policy terms, conditions, and additional coverages chosen by the policyholder.)

Comprehensive Coverage 🛡️

Star Assure provides extensive coverage for a wide range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, pre and post-hospitalization, and day-care procedures, reducing out-of-pocket costs.

1. Cashless Treatment 💳

Access a network of hospitals offering cashless treatment options, eliminating the need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement later, easing financial strain during emergencies.

2. Tax Benefits 💰

Premiums paid for the Star Assure policy qualify for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, allowing policyholders to save on their annual tax liabilities.

3. No-Claim Bonus 🌟

For every claim-free year, enjoy a no-claim bonus, which increases the sum insured without additional premiums, providing enhanced coverage over time.

4. Lifelong Renewability ♾️

Star Assure offers lifelong renewability, ensuring continuous coverage without age limits, protecting against future health-related financial uncertainties.

5. Alternative Treatments 🌿

The policy covers alternative treatments like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, offering financial support for a broader range of healthcare options.

6. Hospital Cash Benefit 🏥

Receive a daily cash allowance for hospitalization beyond a specified period, aiding in managing additional expenses like transportation, food, and lodging for caregivers.

7. Coverage for Modern Treatments ⚕️

Includes coverage for advanced treatments such as robotic surgeries and stem cell therapy, ensuring financial support for cutting-edge medical procedures.

8. Second Medical Opinion 🩺

Access to a second medical opinion feature without additional charges, helping to confirm diagnoses and treatment plans, potentially avoiding unnecessary expenses.

9. Automatic Restoration of Sum Insured 🔄

Benefit from the automatic restoration of the sum insured if it gets exhausted during the policy year, providing continuous financial protection without extra costs.

10. Pre-Existing Diseases Coverage 🩹

Coverage for pre-existing diseases after a specified waiting period, reducing long-term healthcare expenses for chronic conditions.

11. Preventive Health Check-Ups 🧑‍⚕️

The policy includes free preventive health check-ups, encouraging regular health monitoring and early detection of potential health issues, leading to lower treatment costs.

12. Family Floater Option 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Opt for a family floater plan, which covers all family members under a single sum insured, offering a cost-effective solution for family health insurance needs.

13. Cumulative Bonus 🎁

Earn a cumulative bonus for every claim-free year, which increases the sum insured up to a specified limit, enhancing coverage without additional premiums.

14. No Sub-Limits on Room Rent 🚪

Enjoy the freedom to choose any hospital room without sub-limits on room rent, ensuring access to better healthcare facilities without financial constraints.

15. Worldwide Coverage 🌍

Benefit from coverage for emergency medical treatment worldwide, offering financial protection during international travel.

Brochure - Star Health Assure Insurance Policy

Contact for More Details about Policy:

+91-99491 69257

akbar.abr@gmail.com

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Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil: Promotes Hair Growth and Prevents Hair Fall

Welcome to a world of natural hair care with Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil. Formulated with traditional ingredients and modern expertise, Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil offers a unique solution for maintaining healthy, strong, and beautiful hair. Learn more about this amazing product by visiting Nisarga Hair Oil and exploring the product details at Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil.

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil is crafted from time-honoured recipes passed down through generations of Adivasi tribes. These indigenous people have long relied on natural herbs and oils to maintain their hair's vitality and health. Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil combines these ancient practices with contemporary production methods to ensure the highest quality and effectiveness.

Key Ingredients

The secret to Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil’s effectiveness lies in its ingredients. Each component is carefully selected for its beneficial properties:

Bhringraj: Known as the “King of Herbs,” Bhringraj helps prevent hair loss, promotes hair growth, and treats dandruff.

Amla: Rich in vitamin C, Amla strengthens hair roots, conditions hair, and adds a natural shine.

Brahmi: This herb nourishes the scalp, reduces stress, and promotes hair growth.

Neem: Known for its antibacterial properties, Neem helps maintain scalp health and prevents dandruff.

Coconut Oil: A natural conditioner, coconut oil deeply penetrates the hair shaft, providing moisture and reducing protein loss.

Benefits of Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil

Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil offers numerous benefits, making it an essential part of your hair care routine:

Promotes Hair Growth: Regular use of Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil stimulates hair follicles, promoting healthy and strong hair growth.

Prevents Hair Fall: The potent ingredients work together to reduce hair fall by strengthening the hair roots.

Conditions the Scalp: This oil nourishes and conditions the scalp, preventing dryness and flakiness.

Treats Dandruff: The antibacterial properties of Neem and other ingredients help effectively treat and prevent dandruff.

Adds Shine and Luster: Natural oils and herbs impart a healthy shine and lustre to your hair, making it look vibrant and beautiful.

Reduces Split Ends: By providing deep nourishment, the oil helps reduce split ends and hair breakage.

Relieves Stress: Ingredients like Brahmi help in reducing stress and anxiety, promoting overall well-being and hair health.

Where  To Buy?

Adivasi Hair Oil Online Shopping

How to Use

For best results, follow these steps to incorporate Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil into your hair care routine:

Apply Generously: Take a generous amount of oil and apply it to your scalp and hair, massaging gently in circular motions.

Leave Overnight: For deep conditioning, leave the oil on overnight. If you're short on time, leave it on for at least an hour.

Wash Off: Wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove the oil. For best results, use the oil at least twice a week.

Customer Testimonials

Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil has received positive feedback from customers who have experienced its benefits firsthand:

Anita Sharma: “I've been using Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil for three months, and my hair has never felt healthier. It’s stronger, shinier, and I’ve noticed significant growth.”

Rahul Mehta: “This oil has helped reduce my dandruff and hair fall. I love the natural ingredients and their soothing effect on my scalp.”

Why Choose Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil?

Choosing Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil means opting for a natural, effective, and holistic approach to hair care. Free from harmful chemicals and enriched with the goodness of nature, this oil provides a complete solution for all your hair care needs.

Where  To Buy?

Adivasi Hair Oil Online Shopping

Conclusion

Experience the transformative power of Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil and take the first step towards healthier, stronger, and more beautiful hair. Visit Nisarga Hair Oil to learn more and purchase your bottle of Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil today at Nisarga Adivasi Hair Oil. Embrace the natural way to hair care and see the difference it makes!

#HairCare #NaturalBeauty #HealthyHair #NisargaHairOil #AdivasiTradition #HairGrowth #HairHealth #OrganicIngredients #HairOil #BeautyRoutine

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ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule Time Table - T20 Cricket World Cup

The Men's T20 World Cup will kick off its first stage in both the West Indies and the USA. The second round, known as the Super 8, will take place entirely in the Caribbean nations.

In the first round, 20 teams are divided into four groups of five teams each. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super 8 round. In the Super 8 round, these eight teams will be split into two groups of four. The top two teams from each Super 8 group will move on to the semifinals. The winners of the two semifinals will compete in the T20 World Cup 2024 final on June 29.

T20 World Cup 2024 Groups

Group A

1. India
2. Pakistan
3. Ireland
4. Canada
5. United States of America (USA)

Group B

1. England
2. Australia
3. Namibia
4. Scotland
5. Oman

Group C

1. New Zealand
2. West Indies
3. Afghanistan
4. Uganda
5. Papua New Guinea

Group D

1. Bangladesh
2. Nepal
3. Netherlands
4. South Africa
5. Sri Lanka

T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule

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Sammakka Saralamma Jatara: Medaram Jatara History in Telugu, Medaram, Telangana

వనదేవతల గిరిజన జాతర 

ములుగు జిల్లా కేంద్రం నుండి 44 కిలోమీటర్ల దూరంలో తాడ్వాయి మండలంలో ఉన్న మారుమూల అటవీ ప్రాంతమైన మేడారంలో దట్టమైన అడవులు, కొండ కోనల మధ్య ఈ చారిత్రాత్మకమైన ఈ సమ్మక్క-సారక్క జాతర జరుగుతుంది. సమస్త గిరిజనుల సమారాధ్య దేవతలు, కష్టాలు కడతేర్చే కలియుగ దైవాలుగా, ఆపదలో ఉన్నవారిని ఆదుకునే ఆపధ్భాందవులుగా, కేవలం తెలంగాణలోనే గాక భారత దేశంలోనే వనదేవతులుగా పూజలందుకుంటున్నారీ వనదేవతలు సమ్మక్క-సారక్క. మేడారం జాతర గిరిజన సాంప్రదాయ రీతుల్లో జరుగుతుంది. మన రాష్ట్రము నుండే కాకుండా పొరుగు రాష్ట్రాలైన ఆంధ్రప్రదేశ్, మహారాష్ట్ర, మధ్య ప్రదేశ్, ఒడిశా, చత్తీస్‌గఢ్, జార్ఖండ్ రాష్ట్రాల నుండి కూడా లక్షల కొద్దీ భక్తులు తండోపతండాలుగా తరలి వచ్చి మొక్కులు చెల్లించుకుంటారు. ఈ జాతరను తెలంగాణ ప్రభుత్వం 2014లో రాష్ట్ర పండుగగా గుర్తించింది. 

ఎవరీ సమ్మక్క, సారలమ్మ? 

13వ శతాబ్దంలో నేటి జగిత్యాల జిల్లా ప్రాంతంలోని పొలవాసను పాలించే గిరిజన దొర మేడరాజు ఏకైక కుమార్తె సమ్మక్కను అతని మేనల్లుడైన మేడారం పాలకుడు పగిడిద్దరాజుకిచ్చి వివాహం జరిగింది. ఈ దంపతులకు సారలమ్మ, నాగులమ్మ, జంపన్న అనే ముగ్గురు సంతానం కలిగారు. 

మేడారంపై దండెత్తిన కాకతీయ సేనలు

రాజ్య విస్తరణ కాంక్షతో కాకతీయ ప్రభువు మొదటి ప్రతాపరుద్రుడు పొలవాసపై దండెత్తాడు. ఆయన దాడికి తట్టుకోలేక మేడరాజు, మేడారం పారిపోయి అజ్ఞాతవాసం గడుపుతుంటాడు. మేడారాన్ని పాలించే కోయరాజు ‘పగిడిద్దరాజు' కాకతీయుల సామంతునిగా ఉంటూ కరువు కాటక పరిస్థితుల కారణంగా కప్పం కట్టలేకపోతాడు. కప్పం కట్టకపోవడం, మేడరాజుకు ఆశ్రయం కల్పించడం, కోయ గిరిజనులలో సార్వభౌమునికి వ్యతిరేకంగా విప్లవ భావాలు నూరిపోసి రాజ్యాధికారాన్ని ధిక్కరిస్తున్నాడనే కారణంతో పగిడిద్దరాజుపై ఆగ్రహం వ్యక్తం చేసిన ప్రతాపరుద్రుడు అతడిని అణచివేయడానికి తన ప్రధానమంత్రి యుగంధరుడితో సహా మాఘ శుద్ధ పౌర్ణమి రోజున మేడారంపై దండెత్తుతాడు. 

యుద్ధ భూమిలో వీరమరణం.. జంపన్న ఆత్మహత్యతో 

సాంప్రదాయ ఆయుధాలు ధరించి పగిడిద్దరాజు,సమ్మక్క, సారక్క, నాగమ్మ, జంపన్న, గోవింద రాజులు వేర్వేరు ప్రాంతాల నుండి గెరిల్లా యుద్ధాన్ని ప్రారంభించి వీరోచితంగా పోరాటం చేస్తారు. కానీ, సుశిక్షితులైన అపార కాకతీయ సేనల ధాటికి తట్టుకోలేక మేడరాజు, పగిడిద్దరాజు, సారలమ్మ, నాగులమ్మ, గోవింద రాజులు యుద్ధంలో మరణిస్తారు. పరాజయ వార్త విన్న జంపన్న అవమానాన్ని తట్టుకోలేక సంపెంగ వాగులో దూకి ఆత్మహత్యకు పాల్పడతాడు. అప్పటి నుండి సంపెంగవాగు జంపన్న వాగుగా ప్రసిద్ధికెక్కింది. 

సమ్మక్క వీరోచిత పోరాటం.. దొంగచాటుగా బల్లెంతో 

తన కొడుకు, కుమార్తె మరణించారన్న వార్త విన్న సమ్మక్క యుద్ధరంగానికి వచ్చి కాకతీయ సైనికులపై విరుచుకుపడింది. వందలమందిని మట్టుపెడుతుంది.. వీరోచితంగా పోరాటం సాగిస్తుంది. గిరిజన మహిళ యుద్ధ నైపుణ్యానికి ప్రతాప రుద్రుడు ఆశ్చర్య చకితుడవుతాడు. ఇక ఓటమి తప్పదని భావించిన ఓ కాకతీయ సైనికుడు దొంగచాటుగా సమ్మక్కను బల్లెంతో వెనుక నుంచి పొడవడంతో మేడారం గ్రామానికి ఈశాన్యంలో ఉన్న చిలకలగుట్టకు వెళ్లి గుట్ట మలుపు తిరిగిన తర్వాత ఆమె అదృశ్యమవుతుంది. ఆ తర్వాత తప్పు తెలుసుకున్న ప్రతాపరుద్రుడు సమ్మక్క భక్తుడిగా మారిపోతాడు. 

కుట్రతోనే జయించారు.. వీరోచితంగా కాదు 

కాగా, సమ్మక్కను వెదుక్కుంటూ వెళ్లిన అనుచరులకు ఆమె జాడ కనిపించదు, కానీ ఆ ప్రాంతములో ఒక చెట్టు కింద పుట్ట దగ్గర పసుపు, కుంకుమలు గల భరిణె లభిస్తుంది. అంతేగాక, శత్రు సేనలు రాజ్యాన్ని కుట్రతోనే జయించారని.. వీరోచితంగా కాదని.. రెండేళ్లకోసారి భక్తిశ్రద్ధలతో తనను పూజిస్తే భక్తుల కోరికలు తీరుస్తాననే సమ్మక్క మాటలు ఆకాశవాణిగా వినిపిస్తాయి. ఆ తర్వాత సమ్మక్క భక్తులుగా మారిన కాకతీయ రాజులు ఈ ప్రాంతంలోని గిరిజనులపై పన్నులు ఎత్తివేసి.. సమ్మక్క-సారలమ్మ జాతరను ఘనంగా నిర్వహించాలని ఆదేశాలు చేస్తారు. ఈ నేపథ్యంలో తమకు లభించిన పసుపు, కుంకమ భరిణెలనే సమ్మక్కగా భావించి అప్పటి నుంచి ప్రతి రెండేళ్లకు ఒకసారి మాఘ శుద్ధ పౌర్ణమి రోజున సమ్మక్క-సారలమ్మ జాతరను అత్యంత భక్తి శ్రద్ధలతో జరుపుకోవడం జరుగుతోంది. 

జాతరలో కీలక ఘట్టాలు 

జాతర మొదటి రోజున కన్నెపల్లి నుంచి సారలమ్మను గద్దెకు తీసుకువస్తారు. రెండవ రోజున చిలుకల గుట్టలో భరిణె రూపంలో ఉన్న సమ్మక్కను గద్దెపై ప్రతిష్ఠిస్తారు. దేవతలు గద్దెలపై ప్రతిష్ఠించే సమయంలో పలువురు భక్తులు పూనకంతో ఊగి పోతారు. మూడవ రోజున అమ్మవార్లు ఇద్దరు గద్దెలపై కొలువు తీరుతారు. నాలుగవ రోజు సాయంత్రము ఆవాహన పలికి దేవతలను ఇద్దరినీ తిరిగి యద్ద స్థానానికి తరలిస్తారు. వంశ పారంపర్యంగా వస్తున్న గిరిజనులే పూజార్లు కావడం ఈ జాతర ప్రత్యేకత. తమ కోర్కెలు తీర్చమని భక్తులు అమ్మవార్లకు బంగారం(బెల్లం) నైవేద్యంగా సమర్పించుకుంటారు. గిరిజన వాళ్ళే కాక అనేక మతాలకు చెందిన ప్రజలు ఈ ఉత్సవంలో పాల్గొంటారు. 

తెలంగాణా కుంభమేళా.. గిరిజన జాతర

మహా జాతరగా.. మేడారం జాతరను తెలంగాణ కుంభమేళగా కూడా పేర్కొంటారు. సమ్మక్క-సారలమ్మ జాతర రెండు ఏళ్లకు ఒక సారి జరుగుతుంది, సుమారు 900 సంవత్సరాల చరిత్ర కలిగిన ఈ జాతరను 1940 వ సంవత్సరం వరకు చిలుకల గుట్టపై గిరిజనులు మాత్రమే జరుపుకునే వారు.. కానీ 1940 తర్వాత తెలంగాణా ప్రజలంతా కలిసి జరుపుకుంటున్నారు. ఏటేట జనం పెరుగుతుండడంతో జాతరను కొండ కింద జరపడం ప్రారంభించారు. అమ్మవార్ల చిహ్నంగా గద్దెలు ఏర్పాటుచేయబడి ఉంటాయి. ఈ గద్దెలపైకి జాతర రోజు అమ్మవార్ల ప్రతిరూపాలుగా ఉన్న కుంకుమ భరిణెలను తీసుకు వస్తారు. పూర్తిగా గిరిజన సాంప్రదాయంలో జరిగే ఈ జాతరకు తెలంగాణా నుండే కాకుండా మధ్యప్రదేశ్, ఛత్తీస్‌గఢ్, మహారాష్ట్ర, ఒడిషా, జార్ఖండ్, తదితర రాష్ట్రాలనుండి సుమారు కోటికి పైగా భక్త జనం వచ్చి అమ్మవార్లను దర్శించుకుంటారు.

అధికారికంగా వేడుకలు

కోయ గిరిజనుల ఉనికికోసం పోరు సల్పిన సమ్మక్క-సారలమ్మ జాతర కీ. శ.1260 నుంచి 1320 వరకు ఓరుగల్లును పాలించిన ప్రతాపరుద్ర చక్రవర్తి కాలం నుంచి కొనసాగు తున్నట్లు స్థల పురాణాలు తెలుపు తున్నాయి. మేడారం జాతర గద్దెల ప్రాంగణానికి సాంప్రదాయ పద్ధతిలో దేవతలను తీసుకు వస్తారు. వంశపారపర్యంగా వస్తున్న గిరిజనులే ఇక్కడ పూజారులుగా కొనసాగుతున్నారు. మేడారం జాతరకు సుమారు పది రోజుల ముందు నుంచే పూజా కార్యక్రమాలు నిర్వహిస్తారు. సారలమ్మ పూజారులు కన్నెపల్లిలోని గుడి వద్ద అమ్మ వారిని పూజించి సమ్మక్క దేవతాపూజారులైన సిద్దబోయిన వారింటికి వస్తారు. సమ్మక్క పూజారులు చిలుకలగుట్ట వద్దకు వెళ్ళి దేవతను కుంకుమ భరిణ రూపంలో తీసుకు వస్తారు. ఈ సందర్భంగా జిల్లా పోలీసు అధికారులు 10 రౌండ్లు తుపాకీ కాల్పులు జరిపి దేవతను గద్దెకు తీసుకువస్తారు. భక్తుల మొక్కుబడుల అనంతరం తిరిగి దేవతలు వనప్రవేశం చేస్తారు.

Every two years, amidst the lush forests of Medaram in the Mulugu district of Telangana, India, a spectacular event unfolds that captures the hearts and souls of millions. The Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, also known as the Medaram Jathara, stands as a testament to the unwavering devotion and legendary courage of two tribal goddesses, Sammakka and Saralamma.

This grand festival, considered one of the world's largest tribal gatherings, commemorates the timeless tale of a mother and daughter who defied injustice and tyranny with unmatched bravery. Sammakka, the elder, and Saralamma, the younger, fought against oppression, becoming symbols of hope, resilience, and divine strength.

The legend of Sammakka and Saralamma dates back centuries, echoing through the hills and valleys of Telangana. As the story goes, these fearless goddesses stood firm against a cruel law that threatened their people's way of life. Their courage and determination in the face of adversity have been celebrated through generations, and the Jatara pays homage to their indomitable spirit.

The festival begins with a mesmerizing procession, as the idols of Sammakka and Saralamma are brought from the forest to a designated spot in Medaram. This sacred journey, accompanied by drum beats, chants, and the fervent prayers of devotees, sets the stage for days of celebration and devotion.

For 10-12 days, Medaram transforms into a bustling hub of spirituality and festivity. Over one crore devotees from far and wide flock to the village, drawn by the allure of seeking blessings from the divine goddesses. The air is filled with the scent of incense, the sounds of hymns, and the joyful laughter of devotees, creating an atmosphere of pure devotion.

One of the most cherished traditions of the Jatara is offering "bangaram," pure jaggery, to the goddesses. Devotees come bearing this sweet gift as a token of their love and gratitude, seeking the blessings of Sammakka and Saralamma for prosperity, protection, and well-being.

The festival is not just a religious event; it is a vibrant celebration of tribal culture, traditions, and community spirit. Folk artists, dancers, and musicians from various tribal communities grace the festival with their mesmerizing performances, adding a colourful tapestry of culture to the proceedings.

As night falls, the entire village of Medaram comes alive with the glow of lamps and the flickering flames of bonfires. Devotees gather around the sacred fire pits, known as "Gadde," to offer prayers, sing songs, and partake in the communal spirit of the festival.

Sammakka Saralamma Jatara holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Telangana, not just for its religious significance but also for its cultural and historical importance. It is a time when communities unite, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and social status, to celebrate the enduring legacy of two remarkable goddesses.

As the festival draws to a close, the idols of Sammakka and Saralamma are carried back to the forest, accompanied by tearful farewells and promises of return. The spirit of the goddesses, however, remains etched in the hearts of devotees, inspiring them to face life's challenges with courage and faith.

In the serene forests of Medaram, amidst the chanting of hymns and the echoes of ancient legends, the Sammakka Saralamma Jatara continues to weave its magic, uniting devotees in a tapestry of devotion, celebration, and divine grace.

This biennial extravaganza stands as a vibrant reminder of the power of faith, the strength of community, and the eternal bond between a mother and daughter who became goddesses, lighting the path for generations to come.

As we witness the splendour of the Sammakka Saralamma Jatara in Medaram, we are reminded that legends may fade with time. Still, the spirit of courage, devotion, and love endures forever in the hearts of those who believe.

Let us join hands, dear devotees, as we celebrate this magnificent festival, honouring the divine presence of Sammakka and Saralamma, the embodiment of courage and devotion.

Jai Sammakka! Jai Saralamma!

#SammakkaSaralammaJatara #MedaramJathara #TelanganaFestival #DivineCourage #GoddessSammakka #GoddessSaralamma #MuluguDistrict #CulturalHeritage #IncredibleIndia #JataraFestival #TelanganaTraditions #SpiritOfDevotion #IndianFestivals

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Theyyam Ritual Festival Kerala 2024: A Colorful Cultural Spectacle of Kerala - Schedule and Dates

Theyyam is a distinctive and colourful rite that is performed in the center of Kerala. A fascinating fusion of dancing, music, and spirituality, this age-old custom is ingrained in the local way of life.

Performers embodying gods and spirits are decked out in lavish costumes and vibrant makeup for the Theyyam festival. Each character, with their own unique gestures and clothes, represents a different legendary or ancestor figure.

Theyyam is a spiritual ceremony of great significance for the local communities, not just a kind of entertainment. It is thought that devotees can communicate with the gods, ask for blessings, and obtain direction for different facets of life through the practice of Theyyam.

Crowds assemble to see the show in village squares and temples where the performances typically take place. Drums beat rhythmically, creating an energetic environment, while the performers dance with passion and commitment.

Among Theyyam's most remarkable features is its inclusiveness. In contrast to certain other traditional art forms, Theyyam is accessible to individuals of various backgrounds and faiths. It unites people in joy and reverence, acting as a unifying factor.

Seeing Theyyam is an incredibly engaging cultural experience for visitors to Kerala. It makes a deep impression on everyone who sees its beauty and majesty by providing a window into the rich spiritual traditions and heritage of the area.

In Kerala, India, Theyyam is a well-liked festival that combines ritualistic dance and drama. The terms "Deivam" and "Aattam," which translate to "God" and "dance," are combined to form the word "Theyyam."

Theyyam is a type of dance that was developed as a fertility rite to bring deity and humanity together. It is a synthesis of living culture, theatre, and ritual. It is believed that the celebration, which takes place during the dry season, will bring prosperity and harmony to the populace. 

North Kerala is the birthplace of the renowned Theyyam ceremony. It is a performance that combines dance, mime, and music to tell the state's stories. 

Reportedly, the rite was first performed for fertility purposes and is not done for amusement. It is a dance of the Gods, intended to bring divinity and mankind together.

The 2024 Kerala & Theyyam Festival is from February 27 to March 14. 

The Theyyam festival is a unique art form that is popular in northern Kerala. It is a dance-drama that tells stories about Kerala through its vibrant colours and ritualistic movements. The festival can only be experienced in certain towns between November and May. 

Here are some other 2024 Theyyam festival dates:

Andalur Kavu Theyyam Festival: February 14–20, 2024 at Andalur Kavu in Kannur

Thaivalappil Tharavadu Kandothu: February 28–29, 2024

Kallidil Devasthanam: February 28–March 1, 2024  February 28–March 1, 2024 

#Theyyam #KeralaTheyyamFestival #IndianTradition #SpiritualRitual #CulturalHeritage #KeralaFestival #TraditionalDance #RitualArtistry #CulturalSpectacle #VibrantCelebration

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