Nagoba Jatara- A Big Tribal Festival in Keslapur

The sleepy village of Keslapur in Indervelli mandal came alive with vibrant energy as thousands of tribals and non-tribals from across India gathered to celebrate the annual Nagoba Jatara. This seven-day-long festival, dedicated to the Nagoba temple, is one of the most significant religious and cultural events for the Mesram clan and other aboriginal tribes. The festival, which commenced on Tuesday night, saw nearly one lakh devotees from Telangana, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha participating in the celebrations.

A Spiritual Gathering of Tribes

The Nagoba Jatara is a unique festival that brings together ethnic tribes from various states, making it one of the largest tribal gatherings in India after the biennial Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara in Medaram, Mulugu district. The festival is observed during the Amavasya (Dark Moon) night in the month of Poos or Pushya, a time considered highly auspicious by the tribal communities.

Devotees Offer Prayers and Naivedyam

Devotees began arriving in Keslapur from early morning on Wednesday and continued to pour in until midnight on Thursday. They thronged the Nagoba temple to perform special prayers and present naivedyam (offerings) as a token of gratitude for the wellbeing of their families. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and reverence as the tribals sought blessings from the deity.

Cultural and Social Activities at the Jatara

The Nagoba Jatara is not just a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza and a social gathering for the tribal communities. The festival grounds were bustling with activity as devotees shopped for groceries, home appliances, and other essentials at the Jatara market. They also indulged in fun games and enjoyed the lively atmosphere of the fair.

Camping and Community Dining

Many devotees camped under make-shift tents set up around the village, creating a sense of community and togetherness. They dined with their relatives and friends, sharing meals and stories. The festival provided an opportunity for families and friends to reconnect and celebrate their shared heritage.

Government Stalls and Awareness Programs

Several government departments set up stalls at the Jatara to provide information and services to the attendees. These stalls showcased various welfare schemes and initiatives aimed at the tribal communities, offering a platform for awareness and engagement.

Security and Safety Measures

To ensure the smooth conduct of the festival and prevent any untoward incidents, the authorities deployed 600 policemen at the venue. Barricading was implemented to manage the crowd and prevent stampedes. Parking lots were created on the outskirts of the village to accommodate the large number of vehicles. Additionally, fire tenders and medical staff were stationed at the venue to handle any emergencies.

Bheting Ceremony: A Unique Tradition

One of the highlights of the Nagoba Jatara is the Bheting ceremony, a unique tradition of the Mesram clan. On Wednesday night, 52 newly wedded women were inducted into the clan during this customary ritual. The ceremony, conducted in the presence of the elders of the clan, involved the women visiting the Nagoba deity and seeking blessings. By participating in this ritual, the women attained the status of daughters-in-law of the Mesram clan, symbolizing their integration into the community.