PM Modi praises Vijayawada Utsav 2.0 for promoting cultural heritage and tourism

Artistes performing traditional folk dances as part of Vijayawada Utsav 2.0 at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada on Sunday. | Photo credit: GN RAO

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Andhra Pradesh government, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and the people of Vijayawada for conducting the second annual Vijayawada Utsav, which highlighted the cultural, spiritual and economic importance of the city.

In a letter on the occasion of the festival, Mr. Modi said that Vijayawada occupies a special place in the economic, cultural and spiritual life of Andhra Pradesh with its rich heritage shaped by the sacred Krishna River and the revered Sri Kanaka Durga Temple.

The Prime Minister said that the city’s culture will survive if its residents stay connected to their traditions and pass them on to future generations.

Describing the Vijayawada Utsav as an important initiative, he said the festival provides an opportunity to bring the region’s rich cultural heritage into everyday life while opening new avenues for local artists and entrepreneurs.

He also noted that the festival will provide a new impetus to tourism in the region. Mr. Modi expressed satisfaction at the event’s focus on skill development and highlighted the importance of initiatives that combine cultural preservation with economic opportunities.

The Prime Minister said that as India moves towards the vision of a developed nation, cities need to grow while keeping their distinctive cultural identity alive. He emphasized that programs like Vijayawada Utsav played an important role in achieving this goal by connecting communities with their heritage while promoting local talent and entrepreneurship.

Wishing all the best to all associated with the festival, Mr. Modi expressed hope that the event would further strengthen the bond between the people of Vijayawada and their rich cultural heritage.

Published – 11 Oct 2026 20:32 IST