The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sangeet Natak Academy, and the State Government of Andhra Pradesh, has orchestrated a unique cultural extravaganza known as Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam. This pioneering festival aims to honor the profound legacy of classical music while spotlighting lesser-explored tourist destinations. A prelude to this grand event was recently conducted across six locations in Andhra Pradesh on November 27, 2023, serving as a sneak peek into the main festival slated for December 10th to 12th in Vijayawada.
The forthcoming Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam promises not only a celebration of classical music but also a vibrant showcase and sale of regional culinary delights, local crafts, and handlooms. Its broader objective is to shine a light on the region’s hidden treasures, encompassing spiritual, heritage, and eco-tourism destinations.
The prequel events held in Bobilli, Rajahmundry, Lepakshi, Movva, Nellore, and Kurnool brought together esteemed artists, engaging students from Andhra Pradesh’s music colleges and music aficionados. At Sri Venkateswara Anam Kalakendram, Rajamahendravaram, the event witnessed stellar musical performances by Dr. Manda Anantha Krishna, Peravali Nandakumar, Peravali Jayabhaskar, and M. Hari Babu. The presence of distinguished figures such as Shri Bharath, Member of Parliament, Deputy Collector, Additional Municipal Commissioner, and District Tourism Officer contributed to the event’s success, drawing an audience of 850 attendees.
Another prequel event at the Nandi statue in Lepakshi showcased remarkable performances by Vid. Vinay Sarva, Vid. Vaibhav Ramani, Vid. BS Prashanth, and Vid. Gopi Shravan. With the presence of Shri Chethan IAS, Joint Collector of Sri Satyasai District, and an assembly of 300 participants, including school students, ASI officials, Local District Administration, and officials of AP Tourism and India Tourism, this event became a significant cultural gathering.
The event at Sri Ranganatha Temple in Nellore, set against the scenic backdrop of the Penna river, featured captivating performances by Smt K.Gayathri, Smt Deepika Venkatraman, and Shri Kishore Ramesh. Honored by the presence of Chief Guest Shri Venkateswarlu and attended by over 80 participants, including members of the Yuva Tourism Club of the Indian Culinary Institute, Tirupati, and students of the Government Music College of Nellore, this event encapsulated cultural richness.
Similarly, the prequel event at Sri Sharada Government Music College in Kurnool showcased enthralling performances by Smt. Kothapalli Vandana, Shri. Komanduri Venkata Krishna, Shri. Kotipalli Ramesh, and Kum. K. Sruthi Samhitha. Attended by 180 participants, including students of Sri Sharada Govt. Music College and the general public, the event received accolades from officials of the District Administration, AP Tourism, and the Culture Department.
These prequel events stand as testament to the grandeur and cultural richness that the main event, Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam, is set to bring forth in December 2023 in Vijayawada, further showcasing the diverse tapestry of Andhra Pradesh’s musical heritage.