Telangana Artistes Make New Zealand PM Dance
The troupe completed its tour and returned to Hyderabad on Tuesday, where the artists interacted with the press.
Hyderabad: The culture and traditions of Telangana shone in New Zealand during India’s 79th Independence Day cultural evening in Auckland, where New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, and the Leader of the Opposition Chris Hipkins, joined the celebrations and danced alongside the performers.
The troupe completed its tour and returned to Hyderabad on Tuesday, where the artists interacted with the press.
The Telangana cultural troupe of six artists enthralled audiences with Perini Natyam, Oggudolu, and Dappu Nrityam. Telangana cuisine also ruled the palate, with dishes like rasam winning praise from Kiwis.
Hari Krishna Mamidi, director of the state department of language and culture, said, “Our artists carried Telangana’s living traditions to the global stage, strengthening not just cultural diplomacy but also people-to-people bonds. The language of culture speaks directly to the heart, and nothing can compare. Our artists are the jewels spreading the glory of this state across the world.”
Organisers thanked Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India, for his support and leadership, which ensured that Telangana’s cultural delegation, culinary masters, and artistic troupes received the recognition they deserved, making the festival a landmark success.
Chef Satyanarayana Pandari noted that it was initially difficult to carry certain ingredients into New Zealand due to restrictions. “After the approval, our food was loved by everyone at the festival. Hyderabad biryani, in particular, gained great popularity. We also conducted food competitions, which were very well received,” he said.
