In the vibrant city of Tirupati, the Ugadi festivities unfurled like a vivid tapestry at the Mahati Auditorium, orchestrated by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) alongside the Hindu Dharma Prachara Parishad (HDPP) and welfare department. The celebrations commenced with the melodic strains of traditional instrumental music, or ‘Mangala Dhwani’, followed by soulful Vedic hymns, marking the auspicious beginning of the Telugu New Year celebrations. A distinguished scholar, Bellamkonda Phani Kumar Sharma, presided over the much-anticipated ‘Panchanga Sravanam’ — a ritual where the highlights of the new year’s Hindu calendar are recounted, a cherished tradition upheld each year.
The festivities took on a clever twist as ‘Ashtavadhanam’ was masterfully performed by Sahasravadhani Medasani Mohan, a noted littérateur and former director of TTD’s Annamacharya project. This unique performance, rooted in Telugu literature, showcases linguistic dexterity, sharp memory, and quick wit, reflecting the artistic prowess of the culture. Meanwhile, the next generation of TTD employees’ children dazzled in a fancy dress competition, embodying legendary ‘Vaggeyakaras’ such as Tallapaka Annamacharya and Thyagaraja, bringing history to life with their charm and creativity.
True to tradition, the festivities were not complete without the tasting of ‘Ugadi Pachadi’, a quintessential dish prepared in Telugu homes that signifies the harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors that reflect the human experience. Esteemed guests including HDPP secretary Sriram Raghunath, programme officer Rama Gopal, and welfare officer Ananda Raju graced the occasion with their presence, witnessing the rich cultural heritage celebrated through festive joy.
The Ugadi festivities in Tirupati were celebrated with grandeur at Mahati Auditorium, orchestrated by TTD and HDPP. The event featured traditional music, Vedic prayers, and the insightful reading of the Hindu calendar by Bellamkonda Phani Kumar Sharma. Notable events included the witty performance of ‘Ashtavadhanam’ by Medasani Mohan, while TTD children dressed as famous Vaggeyakaras. The day concluded with the serving of ‘Ugadi Pachadi’ to participants, embodying cultural essence.
The grand Ugadi festivities in Tirupati showcased a blend of traditional and cultural elements, emphasizing the importance of community in celebrating the Telugu New Year. The event featured significant rituals, vibrant performances, and the participation of youth, all coming together to honour the rich heritage of the Telugu culture. From Vedic chants to the quirky performances, the Ugadi celebrations exemplified the societal bonds that strengthen with each passing year.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
