Krishna River turns stage for 51 poets

Describing poets as the true torchbearers of society, Andhra Pradesh Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh said literary gatherings held in the lap of nature provide new direction and inspiration to communities.

The Minister was speaking as the chief guest at the “Krishna Teeram Kavitha Haaram” programme jointly organized by the NTR District Administration, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department, and Malle Teega Sahitya Seva Samstha on Sunday near Haritha Berm Park at Bhavanipuram in Vijayawada.

As part of the unique initiative, 51 poets from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Mumbai recited their poems aboard the ‘Bodhisiri’ boat while cruising on the Krishna River. Minister Durgesh, accompanied by NTR District Collector Dr. G. Lakshmisha, personally travelled on the vessel and listened to the poetic renditions with keen interest.

Calling the event an innovative experiment, the Minister said that holding a literary conclave on the flowing waters of the Krishna was a refreshing new trend. “This programme is like a poetic tribute offered by today’s poets to the sacred river Krishna that flows through Amaravati,” he remarked.

Minister Durgesh announced that the state government would encourage similar literary and cultural events along riverbanks across Andhra Pradesh. He assured that such programmes would soon be organized on the banks of the Godavari and Penna rivers as well. He particularly mentioned plans to conduct a poets’ meet on a launch service between Devipatnam and Papikondalu in the near future.

The Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to reviving the cultural sector. He announced that Nandi Natakotsavams and Nandi Awards would be organized soon, and that prestigious recognitions like the Ugadi and Kandukuri awards would continue to be presented in a grand manner.

He further revealed that discussions had already been held with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu regarding the installation of a statue of Mahakavi Tikkana in Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district, and that a final decision would be taken shortly. Durgesh emphasized that the poems presented at the event, which reflected the struggles and aspirations of common people, would be digitally documented for future generations. “Protecting the self-respect and dignity of poets and artists is a priority for our government,” he said.

Andhra Pradesh Creative and Culture Society Chairperson Podapati Tejaswi highlighted the importance of preserving language and literature, stating that culture survives only when writers and artists are encouraged. She lauded the government’s efforts to support creative communities and preserve traditional arts.

Malle Teega Sahitya Seva Samstha president Kalimi Sri explained that the objective of the programme was to record contemporary poetry and preserve it for posterity. He thanked the state government and district administration for extending support to the initiative.

The event concluded with Minister Durgesh felicitating all 51 participating poets. Large numbers of literature lovers and cultural enthusiasts attended the programme, making it a memorable celebration of poetry and the river Krishna.