Port Blair, Jan 16: Colourful cultural programme presented by children marked the Makar Sankranti celebrations by the Andhra Association in its auditorium on 15th jan 2018. The Chief Secretary A&N Administration, Mr Anindo Majumdar as the chief guest inaugurated the cultural evening by lighting the traditional lamp.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Chief Secretary greeted the Telugu community a happy and prosperous Makar Sankranti. The Telugu Community has contributed a lot in the development of the A&N Islands, the Chief Secretary said recalling the contribution made by the people from Andhra Pradesh in the freedom struggle of India.
Mentioning the importance of mother tongue, the Chief Secretary desired that different communities residing in A&N Islands should teach the younger generation their respective mother tongues besides learning Hindi & English.
The Chief Secretary appreciated the brilliant cultural programme presented by the children and also congratulated Mr Ravi, who made live painting on global warming which impressed one and all present. The Chief Secretary also gave away prizes to the winners of various competition organized as part of the celebrations. The Principal JNRM Dr. Neelam Francis Xavier was the guest of honour on the occasion.
Mr Tej Bahadur, SE, APWD and the Vice President Andhra Association, Mr M. Kondaiah also addressed the gathering. Mr B. Ramakrishna, General Secretary of Andhra Association presented a report on the activities of the Association.
Classical dances highlighting the rich cultural heritage of India were the highlight of the cultural evening which drew good round of applause from the audience present in the auditorium in large numbers.
Earlier, the President Andhra Association, Mr B. Mohan Rao welcomed the gathering while the programme came to an end with the vote of thanks proposed by the vice President, Mr Bogeshwar Rao.
