Global Telugu Community Gathers for Third World Telugu Conference

The third edition of the World Telugu Conference commenced on Saturday in Guntur, marking a significant event for the global Telugu community. The conference opened with a stirring performance of Annamacharya kirtanas, featuring a thousand voices, following a formal inauguration by Supreme Court Judge Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha. Notable attendees included spiritual leader Viswayogi Viswanji, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Chintakayala Ayyannapatrudu, and Guntur Mayor Kovelamudi Ravindra.

Organized by the Andhra Saraswata Parishad, the conference is taking place at the Sri Sathya Sai Spiritual Centre on the outskirts of Guntur and will continue until January 5, 2024. The event holds particular importance due to the participation of various global dignitaries. Among them, Odisha Governor Kambhampati Haribabu and Mauritius President Dharam Gokhool are set to attend on Sunday, marking the first appearance of a serving head of state at this conference. On Monday, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu will also engage in discussions.

During his address, Justice Narasimha emphasized the cultural significance of the Telugu language. He stated, “Language is not merely a tool of expression; it has the power to create worlds. Telugu gives us identity, and its use must be ensured in official administration and court proceedings up to the district level.” His remarks highlight the importance of preserving and promoting the language within various spheres of public life.

Speaker Ayyannapatrudu echoed these sentiments, calling for greater visibility of the Telugu language across the nation. He suggested that members of parliament should communicate in Telugu, noting that translation equipment is available to assist other members. Since assuming office as Speaker of the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, Ayyannapatrudu has mandated the use of Telugu in parliamentary discussions.

He expressed concern over the increasing influence of Western cultural practices, particularly the celebration of New Year on December 31, which he argued overshadows traditional festivals like Sankranti and Ugadi. Ayyannapatrudu urged parents to ensure that their children do not neglect their native language while learning English for employment opportunities. He pledged that a special resolution would be introduced on behalf of the state government to protect and promote the Telugu language.

The conference spans five venues and will feature the presentation of numerous awards. An exhibition area dedicated to handicrafts will showcase ancient Telugu literature, historical coins, and traditional cuisine, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Telugu-speaking community.

As the conference unfolds, it aims to foster discussions and initiatives that will strengthen the global Telugu identity and ensure the language’s prominence in both local and international contexts.