Lokesh Hosts Family Meet For Senior Colleagues

VIJAYAWADA: Setting a new tradition, education and IT minister Nara Lokesh hosted a set of alliance legislators and their families at his residence on Thursday evening – a step forward from the existing formal ties to the forging of familial bonds.

The initiative, termed “Atmiya Kalayika”, sought to foster camaraderie beyond the realm of politics. The MP, MLAs and MLCs of the Machilipatnam parliamentary constituency trooped into his Undavalli residence for a dinner and friendly interactions marked by warmth and informality.

The atmosphere resembled a family celebration rather than a political meeting, with leaders and their family members seated together, sharing a meal and participating in light-hearted conversations. Significantly, political discussions were consciously avoided.

Lokesh presented Mangalagiri handloom silk sarees, woven by artisans from his constituency, to the women attendees. He personally greeted each family member, enquiring about their well-being and pursuits.

In a rare display of transparency, Lokesh handed over detailed reports to the public representatives, outlining the status of the petitions they had submitted to him in the past. These reports specified the issues resolved, those under process, and the matters that are pending; with reasons assigned.

The participants noted that such a gathering was unprecedented in their life.

The Telugu Desam party’s emphasis on family values, a tradition dating back to NT Rama Rao and strengthened by Chandrababu Naidu, found a new expression in this initiative.

Several MLAs and chief whip GV Anjaneyulu participated in the event with their families.