KAKINADA: The otherwise sleepy Kakinada beach on the city outskirts is bustling with activity following the commencement of three-day annual NTR Beach Festival on Tuesday.
The two kilometre long sandy stretch has turned into a hub of entertainment overnight. Be it song and dance, shopping and a series of exhibitions, the beach is the only destination where there is something for everyone.
The redesigned festival venue is attracting many, as an approach road was laid for the convenience of visiting public. There is no need of walking on the sand to visit the stalls and to the entertainment programmes as well. The three-day long NTR Beach Festival was inaugurated by district in-charge Minister K Kala Venkat Rao. Crowds thronged the NTR beach after the festival was declared open.
A musical performance by legendary singer SP Balasubrahmanyam and his team enthralled the audience.
Events like floral exhibition, food courts and heli-tours have been arranged as part of the festival.
Speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu said tourism plays a vital role in economic development of the State.The flower show, nurseries, aqua exhibition, helicopter rides, paragliding and water sports drew the attention of the tourists.
Separate shopping areas have been allocated to the members of women self-help groups, weavers and tribals and each arena consists of 15 to 20 stalls displaying the products ranging from homemade pickles to Jandhani saris. Troupes of Gangireddulu, Haridasulu, Butta Bommalu and Pagativeshagallu and other folk artistes have given a traditional touch to the festival.
Arrangements
Collector Karthikeya Mishra, Joint Collector A Mallikarjana and SP Vishal Gunni supervised the arrangements
This year, the main dais has been arranged near the Haritha Beach Resorts of the APTDC for the convenience of visitors
Meanwhile, arrangements have been made to ensure hassle-free movement of vehicles, and free bus services were operated from various parts of the city to the venue for the first time
Cultural carnival
Haridasulu, Tappeta Gullu, Garaga Nrityalu, Dappulu, Nemali Dances, King Kong, Pagativeshalu, Stick Walkers, Godzilla, Butta Bommalu and Kommu Nrityalu enthral the audience
ODF campaign
Collector launches the ODF campaign to create awareness among the people about cleanliness, hygiene and sanitation