The Samakka-Saralamma Jatara, a massive tribal festival held once every two years in Telangana’s forest village Medaram, is all set to begin on January 28. This festival draws millions of Adivasis from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. A towering 50-feet granite arch now welcomes devotees, symbolizing a big upgrade in the festival’s infrastructure. The festival’s heart has shifted from a small clearing to a larger area nearly double in size, with nine arches and 32 pillars. The changes, designed to ease crowd movement and safety, are transforming the centuries-old ritual. Devotees offer jaggery, chickens, lambs, and coconuts while worshiping the family gods—Samakka, Saralamma, Pagididda Raju, and Govinda Raju. Traditional tribal symbols and clan histories are carved on the new stone pillars, celebrating the Koya tribe’s rich heritage. Yet, some tribal leaders express concern about losing old customs as modern elements come in. The festival honors a family of deities tied deeply to the Koya tribe’s history and myths, with spiritual ceremonies including trance rituals by women at a nearby stream. While the offerings and crowd sizes have grown, the family's connection to the gods remains strong. Architect Yeshwant Ramamurthy says, "Once the entire process is complete, devotees will have a safe and authentic pilgrimage experience." The Samakka-Saralamma Jatara stands at a crossroads—honoring ancient tribal traditions while embracing modern changes to handle its growing crowd and significance.