Andhra Pradesh set the stage for its cultural extravaganza, the Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam Festival 2024, with a series of captivating prequel events held on December 1. Organized by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Ministries of Culture and the Andhra Pradesh Government, these events highlighted the state’s rich musical heritage and its vibrant cultural diversity.
In Srikakulam, the Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple at Arasavalli hosted a soulful performance by Manda Sudharani and her group, with over 300 attendees. The event was graced by local leaders, including Gondu Shankar Rao, MLA, Srikakulam, and Baggu Ramanamurthy, MLA, Narasannapeta.
In Rajamahendravaram, the Anam Kalakendram reverberated with the enchanting melodies of Thulasi Viswanath and her troupe. The event, attended by S. Chinna Ramudu, Joint Collector of East Godavari, drew nearly 750 attendees, showcasing the region’s artistic legacy.
The Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Mangalagiri featured devotional renditions of Narasimha Swamy Krithis by Malladi Narayana Sarma, Malladi Yamuna Raman, and their team. An intimate audience of 100, including esteemed guests like Krishnaveni, Principal of Ghantasala Govt. Music College, enjoyed this spiritual concert.
At Ahobilam, the sacred Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple was the backdrop for an ethereal performance by Kumari Deepika Varadarajan and her group. Bhuma Akhila Priya, MLA, Allagadda Constituency, and other dignitaries graced the event, which attracted 250 attendees.
In Tirupati, the Indira Priyadarshini Auditorium of Sri Padmavathi Mahila Vishwa Vidyalayam hosted performances by Vidwan Sri Garimella Balakrishna Prasad and Vidushi Bullemma. With over 1,000 attendees, the event celebrated Annamacharya Kritis and was presided over by MLA Arani Srinivasulu alongside other cultural leaders.
The prequel events not only showcased Andhra Pradesh’s classical music traditions but also emphasized the Ministry of Tourism’s innovative “Music Tourism” approach. By integrating cultural heritage with tourism, these events created a platform to engage youth and highlight India’s diverse traditions.
The grand finale of the Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam Festival will take place in Vijayawada from December 6 to 8, 2024, across venues like Tummalapalli Kalakshetram Auditorium, Durga Ghat, and Kanaka Durga Temple. The festival promises a holistic cultural experience with soul-stirring music, regional cuisine, and displays of handicrafts and handlooms.
The Ministry of Tourism invites everyone to join this celebration of music, devotion, and heritage, underscoring India’s timeless cultural traditions.