Warangal: The quiet forest landscape of Medaram has transformed into a bustling mega-city ahead of the biennial Sammakka-Saralamma Maha Jathara. Historically, the Medaram Jathara sees devotees camping under trees and cooking in the open forest. Luxury tent cities are equipped with modern amenities, with prices ranging from `5,000 to `10,000 per day, based on the facilities provided. For the people of Medaram and its surrounding villages like Reddygudem, Narlapur, Chintal Cross and Yelabaka, the festival is a primary source of economic survival. They treat every visitor like a member of their own family, and charge only the minimum rates – unlike for the luxury tent cities, he said.