Kuchipudi performances to be part of Godavari Pushkarams: Tourism Minister

Kandula Durgesh, Tourism Minister of the Government, announced on Saturday that Kuchipudi dancers would be given a stage to perform at Anam Kala Kendram in Rajamahendravaram during the 12-day Godavari Pushkarams. The aim was to promote the classical dance form and draw tourists from all across India to the region. Durgesh interacted with Kuchipudi dancers after a solo performance by Aparna Kovvidi, who is being trained by Kuchipudi guru Ajay Srinivas of Rajamahendravaram.

Kovvidi received praise from the audience for her performance. During his address to the gathering, Durgesh confirmed that Kuchipudi would be included among the cultural programs scheduled during the Godavari Pushkarams. "Kuchipudi dancers from across the State will be given an opportunity to perform during the Pushkarams," he stated.

The objective was to promote Kuchipudi and boost tourism in the area. Furthermore, the government was devising a database of Kuchipudi dancers, theatre artists, folk dancers, and other performers in the State to incorporate them under social welfare pension schemes. Identity cards would be issued to classical dancers, folk artists, and theatre performers, allowing eligible artists to benefit from pension privileges in recognition of their role in preserving and promoting traditional arts.