SRM University Hosts Amaravati Literature Festival with Writers from Across India

Telugu language and literature have an immeasurable value and possess the power to shape individuals into better human beings, said Tejaswi Podapati, Chairperson of the Andhra Pradesh Creativity and Culture Commission. She said the commission was working on a range of initiatives to take Telugu to a wider global audience.

The Amaravati Literature Festival was inaugurated in a grand manner at SRM University, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday, bringing together poets, writers, students and literature enthusiasts from several states. Tejaswi Podapati, who attended the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest, addressed the gathering at the university auditorium and emphasised the need to preserve and promote the richness of the Telugu language.

Tejaswi said the younger generation was gradually losing touch with the importance of the written word amid the rapid expansion of digital platforms. She urged students to develop a greater appreciation for reading and literature, observing that experiencing the beauty of literature requires a deep respect for language. While learning foreign languages can broaden opportunities, she stressed that students should never neglect their mother tongue.

She also appreciated SRM University for its efforts to promote Telugu language and literature at the national level and said the commission was developing plans to give Telugu a stronger presence globally.

The inaugural programme was presided over by university Vice-Chancellor Prof. C.H. Satish Kumar, while Guntur District Collector Saikanth Varma unveiled a video showcasing the literature festival.

Speaking at the event, Saikanth Varma said regular reading could help people develop self-confidence and communication skills. He welcomed the initiative to organise the festival in Amaravati, noting that such events could help highlight the city’s cultural and literary significance to a wider audience.

Prof. Satish Kumar said the festival was designed to create a common platform for poets and writers representing different regions and languages. He announced that the university would introduce two prestigious literary awards, at the state and national levels, from next year. A dedicated jury will be constituted to select the award recipients.

Tamil writer Mini Krishnan spoke about the importance of literature festivals and the role literature plays in influencing society. Dean Dr. Vishnupath and festival convenors Dr. Argabasu and Dr. Shayanthan Tagore were among those present.

The three-day festival is witnessing participation from more than 50 poets and writers from Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, West Bengal and other states. Book exhibitions featuring works in different languages have also attracted visitors, with literature enthusiasts interacting with authors and exploring the displayed collections.