MISSISSAUGA: The Telugu community of Greater Toronto Area celebrated Makar Sankranti Celebrations with great enthusiasm at Lincoln M Alexander Secondary School in Mississauga.
Hundreds of Telugu families from Toronto, Markham, Brampton, Mississauga, Oakville, Waterdown, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Hamilton and Milton and joined the five hour long program packed with music, drama, dance, comedy and lots of fun.
An array of South Indian food was one of the highlights of the event. The venue and stage were decorated by Murali Lolla, Govardhan Konda with the help of Anitha Bezawada and other volunteers. Colourful floral designs welcomed the Telugu Cultural Association of Greater Toronto (TCAGT) guests, sponsors, members, Families and Friends.
The festival began with Canadian National Anthem followed by “Deeparadhana”. Executive committee members, trustees, and the event sponsors lit the traditional Indian lamp.
TCAGT Secretary Devi Chowdary delivered the welcome address and highlighted the Sankranthi event activities. She also elaborated on the services provied to the Telugu Community by the 30-year-old Telugu Cultural Association of Greater Toronto (TCAGT). TCAGT that provides an opportunity for new immigrants to network, make friends and helps preserve Telugu cultural heritage in Canada.
The audience acknowledged and applauded the founders of the association for their vision, hard work, and service to the community in Canada. Master of Ceremonies for the evening program were Nandan and Arun Reddy. Treasurer Vamsi Raj Sangamreddy and Board of Trustee Mohan Bottu delivered festival greetings.
President Koteswara Rao Polavarapu introduced the newly elected executive committee, youth Directors and Board of Trustees.