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Jampanna Vagu

Jampanna Vagu, also called Sampangi Vagu or Laknavaram River, is a sacred river in Mulugu, Telangana, tied to Sammakka-Sarakka legends.

Origin / Start: Bhupalpally Forest Range
End / Confluence: Godavari River near Eturnagaram, Mulugu District
Length: Around 80 km

Historical and Cultural Significance

Jampanna Vagu is named after Jampanna, son of tribal goddess Sammakka, who died fighting the Kakatiya army. Tribals believe a holy dip in the river honors their gods’ sacrifices and instills courage. The Jampanna Vagu Bridge spans the stream.

Tribal Legend

Legend says tribal leaders found Sammakka, a newborn girl surrounded by light, and raised her. She married Pagididda Raju, Koya chief, and had three children: Sarakka, Nagulamma, and Jampanna. When King Prataprudra imposed taxes, war broke out. Jampanna died in battle, turning Sampangi Vagu red, renamed Jampanna Vagu. Sammakka retired to Chilakala Gutta as a vermilion jar (Kumkum Bharani). Devotees believe Sammakka and Saralamma are manifestations of Adi Parashakti.

Tributaries of Jampanna Vagu

  • Tummala Vagu – joins near Medaram
  • Kalyaniga Thogu – joins near Padigapuram
  • Mathari Thogu – joins near Padigapuram
  • Chinnapuram Thogu – joins near Vengalapuram
  • Jalagalantha Thogu – joins near Muthapur
  • Vette Vagu – joins near Pasra
    • Karlapalle Vagu – joins Vette Vagu near Pasra
  • Pedda Vagu – joins near Rangapur
  • Sudda Vagu – joins near Rangapur

Recent Flood Events

July 27, 2023 – Telangana Rains: Heavy rainfall caused flash floods in Mulugu district, affecting 30+ villages including Eturnagaram, Mangapet, and SS Tadwai. The Sammakka-Sarakka shrine at Medaram was inundated. Villagers rescued idols and property.

Two villages, Kondai and Maliala, were submerged; around 20 people were washed away. About 60–70 people were stranded on rooftops awaiting rescue. NDRF and local authorities coordinated relief.

Rainfall Records:

  • Mulugu district: 649.8 mm by 8 am, July 28
  • Lakshmidevipet: 64 cm
  • Wajedu: 51.5 cm
  • Chelpur: 475.8 mm, Regonda: 467 mm, Mogullapalli: 394 mm

Source: The Hans India

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