Mulugu (Telangana) [India], January 30 (ANI): 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)