Cultural performances, traditional dances mark the beginning of Vijayawada Utsav 2.0

Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanadh felicitated the participants of the inaugural ceremony of Vijayawada Utsav-2.0 at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada on Sunday. | Photo credit: GN RAO

Vijayawada Utsav 2.0 began in grand style at Punnami Ghat on the banks of Krishna river on Sunday. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurated the festival by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

Organized by the Society for Vibrant Vijayawada with the support of the state government and the Department of Tourism, the festival is being held at the initiative of Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni).

Colorful cultural performances, traditional dances and programs promoting fading art forms attracted visitors. Mr. Sivanath said the festival aims to showcase the hospitality, culture, traditions and spiritual heritage of Vijayawada at the national level. He called Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s letter appreciating the festival as a matter of pride.

Appreciating the efforts of the MP, Mr. Ram Mohan Naidu said the festival will promote local talent, tourism and economic opportunities for small traders. Another major attraction was the National Saras Mela with products made by women’s self-help groups (SHGs) from various states.

Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha appreciated the efforts of the organizers and emphasized on safety, dignity and empowerment of women. Organizers appealed to people to participate in the celebrations and help establish Vijayawada as a prominent cultural and tourist destination.

Published – 11 October 2026 22:59 IST