AP To Celebrate State-wide Telugu Mahotsavam Annually

Addressing the valedictory function of the two-day Undavalli Caves festival near Amaravati, he emphasised that the Telugu Mahotsavam would showcase the richness of Telugu language and culture every year.Stressing the importance of education in the mother tongue, the minister said students would develop greater creativity and critical thinking when primary education is imparted in Telugu. While proficiency in English is essential, he said the mother tongue should never be neglected. Durgesh announced that the government would prepare comprehensive documentation tracing the evolution of Telugu as a classical language and extend full support for preserving Telugu literature and manuscripts for future generations.

He underscored the need to revive traditional art forms, such as Tholu Bommalata, Harikatha, Burrakatha, and classical verse dramas. The minister pointed out that the government has already instituted several awards for writers, artists, and scholars. It would soon organise the prestigious Nandi Natakotsavams.

He went on to announce that the birth centenary celebrations of Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao would be held in Vijayawada on August 4, while the Telugu Language Day and the Telugu Awards presentation would be organised on August 29, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Gidugu Ramamurthy Pantulu.

During the festival, the minister honoured poets and social media influencers who have contributed to the promotion of Telugu. He unveiled a portrait by Language and Culture Department Director Regulla Mallikarjuna Rao, released Kavita Kusumalu by Simhadri Vani, interacted with artisans demonstrating pottery and Telugu calligraphy, watched a Tholu Bommalata performance, and appreciated a school student for reciting Bhagavad Gita verses with remarkable clarity. A

vanigadda MLA Mandali Buddha Prasad praised the government's efforts to involve the youth in preserving Telugu. AP State Creative and Cultural Society chairperson Tejaswi Podapati said the Undavalli festival is to make Telugu a living language by encouraging its everyday use beyond classrooms. Director Regulla Mallikarjuna Rao appreciated Minister Durgesh for organising the festival at the historic Undavalli caves. The celebrations concluded with renowned singer Shobha Raju rendering Annamacharya compositions highlighting the sweetness of Telugu.