Kondaveedu Fest Begins Today, Historic Fort Set for Grand Cultural Revival

The historic Kondaveedu Fort is set to come alive on a grand scale today as the Kondaveedu Fest gets underway, transforming the iconic hill fortress into a vibrant hub of culture, history and tourism activity. The fort, a proud symbol of the Reddy dynasty , is expected to witness thousands of visitors as Union Minister of State for Rural Development Pemmasani Chandrasekhar and State Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy formally inaugurate the festival by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

Addressing the gathering, the ministers underlined the government’s resolve to transform Kondaveedu into a world-class tourist destination with improved tourism infrastructure , visitor amenities and heritage interpretation. They said the fort, which stands as testimony to the valour and administrative strength of the Reddy rulers, must gain national and international recognition. The leaders stressed that preserving and presenting the site’s history to future generations remains a priority.

Historically, Kondaveedu Fort occupies a prominent place in South Indian history. Serving as the capital of the Reddy kings during the 14th–15th centuries , the hill fortress was a major military stronghold and administrative centre. Its massive stone ramparts, gateways and watch points reveal advanced medieval fortification techniques, while the reservoirs and tanks reflect efficient water conservation systems that sustained life atop the hill. Over time, the fort witnessed the rule and conflicts of powers such as the Vijayanagara Empire and the Qutb Shahi rulers , followed by the French and the British, making it a layered site of political and cultural transitions. Archaeological findings in the surrounding region, including early remains, highlight the area’s long historical continuity and research value.

Unlike ancient temple fairs, the Kondaveedu Fest itself is a modern heritage initiative led by the government and district administration to promote the fort’s legacy, local arts and tourism potential. Conducted in recent years as part of a focused push to revive interest in the monument, the festival blends history with contemporary attractions, cultural performances, sand art, adventure activities and scenic experiences making heritage accessible to younger generations and families.

The site has also gained importance in official heritage circles. Kondaveedu Fort has figured in discussions for higher heritage recognition, with preservation and documentation efforts drawing attention to its architectural and historical significance. Such recognition strengthens the case for conservation funding, expert involvement and structured tourism development, positioning the fort as an emerging heritage tourism hub in Andhra Pradesh.

Following the inauguration, Ministers Pemmasani and Anam, along with MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu , MLA Prathipati Pullarao and District Collector Kritika Shukla , are expected to participate in a boating activity in the fort’s lake. A helicopter ride is also planned to offer an aerial view of the sprawling fort complex and surrounding hills, highlighting its scenic appeal. Student cultural performances and intricate sand sculptures are set to attract visitors, with large crowds anticipated from nearby villages and towns.

Beyond celebration, the festival carries broader value. It supports local livelihoods through tourism-linked activities, encourages community participation, and builds awareness about conservation. Experts believe that steps such as guided heritage trails, interpretation centres and conservation-friendly infrastructure can further elevate Kondaveedu’s status while protecting its fragile remains.

As the Kondaveedu Fest begins, the historic fort stands not just as a relic of the past, but as a living cultural landscape where history, community and tourism come together to script a renewed future for one of Andhra Pradesh’s most significant hill forts.