Telugu Mahotsavam, lively tribute to Telugu language and culture,launched Saturday at historic Undavalli Caves in Guntur district. Andhra Pradesh State Creativity and Culture Society runs this two-day fest to keep Telugu heritage alive for future generations .
Day began early,6:30 a.m.,with Suryodaya Suprabhatham. Students from Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao Government College of Music and Dance greeted sunrise with Telugu devotional and literary pieces. peaceful cave setting set the stage for the day's cultural happenings.
Dignitaries like NTR District Collector G . Laxmisha,former Zilla Parishad Chairperson Gadde Anuradha,and APMSIDC Chairman Chillapalli Srinivas attended. Ghazal singer Ghazal Srinivas,NTR district DCP K.G.B. Saritha, and Telugu Sahitya and Culture Academy Chairman M.D. Wilson (aka Sharath Chandra) also there. Laxmisha stressed the shared duty of preserving Telugu, one of India's ancient languages, hoping festival would spark youth interest in their roots.
Anuradha spoke on uniting Telugu literature,traditions,and arts on one platform to strengthen cultural identity . A highlight was “Aame Maata – Akshara Baata,” a literary panel with women writers like Bhavani Devi,Mandalapu Haimavathi,and others,discussing women's historical impact on Telugu literature from poet Molla to author Volga.
Poets from Andhra Pradesh gathered for “Chettu Needana Chirugaali Kavithva Gaana Karyakramam,” open-air poetry session. They celebrated Telugu language,Undavalli Caves' history,and social issues, earning certificates from Podapati Tejaswini, Chair of the Andhra Pradesh State Creativity and Culture Society.
Storytelling led by Munjaluri Krishnakumari,former All India Radio director,brought tales from Panchatantra to life. A traditional Tholu Bommalata (shadow puppetry) of Sundarakanda wowed the crowd. The “Telugu Swarala Sangeeta Sambaram” segment had music lovers singing along to classic Telugu film songs and live performances .
Day one wrapped up with a vibrant display of Andhra Pradesh’s literary, artistic,and cultural heritage. Attendees left eager for more.
