American Telugu Association Day Phoenix - March 26 2023
The vibrant and colorful Telugu cultural event, ATA-Day AZ 2023, concluded on Sunday, March 26th. This event organized by the American Telugu Association (ATA) Arizona, was a resounding success, showcasing the importance of Seva and celebrating the diversity and richness of Telugu culture.
The program, held at the Phoenix Shrine Auditorium in Phoenix, AZ, featured a wide range of events, including classical, folk, fusion music and dance performances, fashion show, mythological dramas and a showcase of Hyderabad’s favorite food. Several other competitions like drawing, speed-chess were conducted in additional to hosting various shopping stalls. The hosts arranged special events for the kids including face-painting, chess completion and a play-zone.
This program was kicked-off with Ugadi Puja celebrating the Telugu New Year. It was graced by the presence of the ATA National President Mrs. Madhu Bommineni, who highlighted the importance of service to the community and preserving Telugu cultural heritage and promoting it to the world. Also present was the ATA Board of Trustee Mrs. Sharada Singireddy, who mentioned that the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana needs to be cherished and celebrated.
The program's highlight was the live music performances by renowned artists, Raghu Kunche and Anjana Sowmya, which enthralled the audience with their virtuosity and skill. This event also provided a platform for the local artists to perform and display their talents. This event amassed a huge crowd and entry to the auditorium was temporarily shut due to safety regulations. “It was very over-whelming, such support from the crowd is precious and invaluable.” said the Women’s chair Mrs. SUBHA and Mrs. Bindya.
Local grocery store Orange Tommy India Mart, and Biryani Pot restaurant were the title sponsors. While several other IT Consulting Companies Waverock Solutions, Tangensis Inc and Open Queue Co-Sponsored the event. Many participants received gold coins and vouchers through raffle draw which was sponsored by Sri Krishna Jewelers and Dosa Biryani Chaat restaurant.
The cultural program was well received by the visitors, who appreciated the efforts made to showcase India's rich cultural heritage. "The program was an excellent opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of various cultures in one place. It was a well-organized event, and I thoroughly enjoyed it," said one of the visitors. “I haven’t witnessed such an event in Phoenix ever before. It is indeed the best Telugu event Arizona has ever seen. And I have lived here for over 30 years.” said another.
Overall, the Telugu cultural program ATA Day was a raving success, providing a platform to celebrate Telugu cultural heritage in Phoenix, Arizona. The Regional Director Mr. Raghunath Gadi has announced plans to organize similar programs in the future, to continue promoting service to the community and celebrating the cultural diversity and heritage. Speaking on the occasion, the Regional Coordinators Vamsi eruvaram, Sheshi Gade, Chenna Madduri, Dheeaj Pola, Sunil ananapureddy, Madhan Bollareddy expressed their delight at the success of the event, saying that it was heartening to see people from all walks of life and culture coming together.
