Telangana Governor felicitates eminent personalities at State Formation Day celebrations
Hyderabad, June 2 (UNI) The Telangana State Formation Day celebrations were held with grandeur at Raj Bhavan on Monday, with Governor Jishnu Deva Varma presiding as the chief guest.
In a unique gesture promoting national integration, representatives of various Indian states residing in Hyderabad were invited to participate in the event, reflecting the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.'
As part of the Telangana State Cultural Celebrations, the Governor felicitated several eminent personalities who have made significant contributions to the state in the fields of literature, culture, and arts.
Speaking on the occasion, he lauded their dedication and achievements, which have enriched Telangana's cultural identity and brought it national recognition.
Among the awardees was Padma Gaddam Sammayya, a renowned Chindu Yakshaganam artist from Jangaon district, who has preserved and promoted this traditional folk art form on national and international stages.
Folk singer and cultural activist Antaadupula Nagaraju from Mancherial district was also honoured for his impactful songs during the Telangana statehood movement, including the iconic 'Telangana Dhoom Daam,' which resonated with the masses.
Filmmaker Dasyam Tarun Bhaskar, known for his acclaimed film Pelli Choopulu, received recognition for promoting Telangana dialects and narratives in Indian cinema. He has also made a mark as a writer and actor, showcasing the diversity and richness of Telangana's cultural expressions.
Sangeetha Swara Nidhi Raghavachari, one of the Hyderabad Brothers, was commended for his contribution to Carnatic classical music. Despite the recent loss of his brother and fellow artist Seshachari, Raghavachari continues to carry forward their musical legacy with dedication.
Dr Chintapalli Vasundhara Reddy, a noted educator, researcher, and conservator of folk arts, was honoured for her extensive work in documenting and promoting folk traditions across the Telugu-speaking states, especially Telangana. Her scholarly contributions and publications have added depth to the study and preservation of regional art forms.
Senior portrait painter CV Ambaji from Siddipet was recognised for his participation in numerous national and international art exhibitions and his iconic works, including portraits of literary and political stalwarts like Dasarathi, Kaloji, and PV Narasimha Rao.
Dr Mamidi Harikrishna, a writer, historian, documentary filmmaker, and former Director of the Department of Language and Culture, was also felicitated. Born in Shayampet, Hanumakonda district, he has played a pivotal role in promoting Telangana's cultural identity post-state formation.
Under his leadership, the Department spearheaded major initiatives such as Bathukamma and Bonalu celebrations, Ugadi events, book publishing, and documentary filmmaking. His efforts have significantly contributed to the global recognition of Telangana's folk, tribal, and urban art forms.
Governor Deva Varma congratulated the awardees and expressed pride in their relentless efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Telangana.
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