Artists peforming culturals during the procession Lord Malayappa Swamy in four mada streets as part of Saalakatla bramhotsvams at Tirumala on Tuesday. Photo | Express
Vijayawada

30,000 folk artistes to light up Vijayawada on October 2

Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan, and other public representatives will participate in this mega event.

Y Brahmaji

VIJAYAWADA: For the first time, residents and visitors of Vijayawada will witness an extraordinary cultural spectacle featuring 30,000 folk artists performing simultaneously in a dazzling extravaganza.

The grand procession will commence at Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) Stadium and conclude at Benz Circle in the city on October 2.

As part of the ongoing Vijayawada Utsav, this carnival aims to firmly place Vijayawada on the global cultural map, aspire for entry into the Guinness Book of World Records, and embody the Spirit of Dasara by blending devotion, energy, and artistry in a truly unique celebration.

The procession promises breathtaking performances, including Nasik Dhol, Kalika masks, Pothurajus, Lambadi folk dance, Gussadi, Kerala drums, Karra Samu, Teenmaar, Sannayi, Kathakali, Stick walkers, Pagati Veshalu, Veeranatyam, Garagaralu, Kommu Koya, Dinsa, Tappetagullu, Veeragase, Baby dance, Chekka Bhajanas, Puliveshalu, Kolaatam, Garadi, Yaksha arts, Bethala sets, Aghoras, Gorilla dance, Dappu drums, and many more.

Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan, and other public representatives will participate in this mega event. Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath and members of Society for Vibrant Vijayawada, the organisers of both the carnival and Vijayawada Utsav, have already extended invitations to dignitaries from across the region.

The highlight of the celebration will be a grand chariot procession of the Goddess, specially designed for this occasion. Accompanied by devotional music, traditional ensembles, and folk dances, the chariot will symbolise the fusion of spirituality and cultural pride, offering devotees a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Organisers hope that the scale of the carnival will secure Vijayawada a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a vibrant hub of culture, devotion, and tradition.

The event beautifully combines folk heritage with devotional elements, creating a celebration that is both cultural and spiritual.

It is important to note that the Vijayawada Utsav, organised by MP Kesineni Sivanath with support from Vibrant Vijayawada members and the state government, aims to provide entertainment and cultural experiences to citizens and pilgrims visiting the Durga temple during Dasara festivities.

The Utsav, ongoing for the past nine days, has received an overwhelming response from the public.

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