Tirupati’s Gangamma Jatara: A Fiery Festival of Faith
Week-long festival honours goddess Gangamma through ritual disguises, devotion, and community care
Tirupati: As summer blazes across Tirupati, the city comes alive with the vibrant and deeply rooted celebration of the Tathaiahgunta Gangamma Jatara — a week-long folk festival blending mythology, devotion, and survival. Held annually in May, the Jatara honours Goddess Gangamma, believed to be the guardian deity of Tirupati and sister of Lord Venkateswara.
The festival began this year with the traditional ‘Chatimpu’, a loud public proclamation that signals the start of festivities and marks a sacred boundary, with locals refraining from leaving town until it concludes.
Central to the Jatara is the legend of Gangamma, a village goddess from nearby Avilala. She is believed to have battled the oppressive Palegondulu, tyrants who tormented women. Disguising herself in various ‘Veshams’, she ultimately slayed the chief Palegadu, restoring justice. These disguises are now re-enacted by male devotees who dress in sarees, jewellery, and makeup, symbolising devotion and reverence for feminine power.
“These aren’t mere disguises; they are our tribute to her strength,” says Aduri Narayanamma, a local devotee. The Veshams also serve a practical purpose, offering protection from the blazing sun. For instance, Bhairagi Vesham uses white clay to reflect heat, Banda Vesham employs vermilion, and Thoti Vesham involves charcoal — all serving as natural coolants.
Throughout the eight-day festival, community service becomes a sacred duty. Residents offer free buttermilk, fruit juices, and Ragi Ambali—a cooling, nutrient-rich drink. Pongal, made with rice and green gram, is cooked at the temple and shared among devotees, sustaining energy and symbolising the goddess’s nurturing nature.
The festival ends with the ‘Chempa Tholagimpu’ ritual on May 14, when a clay idol of Gangamma is broken and distributed. The sacred clay is believed to have healing powers. “It’s helped us with fever and rashes for decades,” says Rangaswamy, 84, who has attended the Jatara for over 60 years.
More than a religious festival, Gangamma Jatara is a powerful expression of resilience, community, and the enduring bond between faith and folklore.
