Vijayawada opens cultural festival beside Krishna river

Vijayawada Utsav 2.0 opened at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada on October 11. India's Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu lit the ceremonial lamp.

The opening programme included cultural performances and traditional dances. Organisers also presented activities highlighting art forms that are fading from public life.

The Society for Vibrant Vijayawada is organising the festival with support from the Andhra Pradesh government and its tourism department. Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath, also known as Chinni, initiated the event.

The National Saras Mela features products made by women's self-help groups from different states. State Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha emphasised women's safety. Ram Mohan Naidu said the festival should support local talent, tourism and opportunities for small traders.