Bay Area, USA: The Bay Area Telugu Association (BATA) hosted a spectacular Sankranthi celebration in the United States, attracting over 1,000 guests. The event, held from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, featured a variety of cultural programs, including cooking and Rangavalli competitions, folk dances, classical performances, and a lively game show.
Guests were treated to a grand feast with 36 traditional dishes, such as biryani, pulihora, gutti brinjal, and sweet treats like paan and vadiyalu. The event also showcased vibrant decorations, including colorful kites and backdrops, and participants wore traditional attire, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Prominent officials, including the Consulate General of India, Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, Congressman Ro Khanna, and local mayors, attended the event, offering their best wishes for Sankranti and India's Republic Day. Cultural highlights included a children's "Bhogi Fruits" ceremony, devotional songs, and a Telugu language skit, with impressive performances by young children and talented singers.
The celebration also featured various competitions for all ages, including cooking contests, rangavalli designs, and essay writing. Sponsorship from local businesses and community members helped make the event a success, with BATA President Kondal Komaragiri acknowledging their support.
The festive spirit and sense of community were evident throughout the day, with volunteers and committee members working hard to make the celebration a memorable experience for all attendees.