Andhra Pradesh's Kondakarla Ava Festival Inaugurated with Focus on Tourism and Economic Growth
In a significant move to promote regional tourism and cultural heritage, Assembly Speaker Chintakayala Ayyannapatrudu officially inaugurated the two-day Anakapalli Utsav on Friday at Kondakarla Ava. The festival, which also features parallel programmes at Anakapalli, Mutyalammapalem Beach, and other venues, aims to showcase the natural beauty and traditional arts of the area.
Kondakarla Ava: A Natural Gem with Tourism Potential
During the inauguration, Speaker Ayyannapatrudu highlighted Kondakarla Ava as the second-largest natural lake in India, emphasizing its untapped potential to drive tourism, generate local employment opportunities, and inspire reforestation initiatives. He stressed that reservoirs across the district should be developed into attractive tourist spots, with Kondakarla Ava positioned as a key destination capable of drawing foreign visitors and boosting the regional economy.
Government Support for Development Initiatives
Ministers Kollu Ravindra and V Anita, along with Anakapalli MP CM Ramesh, pledged their full support for the development of the expansive 1,800-acre Kondakarla Ava. They advocated for organizing similar festivals across various districts to spur tourism growth and create sustainable job opportunities for local communities. As part of the inauguration ceremony, an audio-visual song was released to celebrate the festival's theme and cultural significance.
Cultural and Artistic Highlights of the Festival
As an integral component of the broader Visakha Utsav, the Anakapalli Utsav offers a rich array of attractions designed to engage visitors and promote local traditions. Key features include:
- Boat rides on the serene waters of Kondakarla Ava
- Puppet shows and traditional drum performances
- Diverse cultural programmes showcasing regional arts
Creative tourism stalls have been set up to display a wide variety of local crafts and products, such as:
- Etikoppaka toys and intricate woodcraft
- Savara paintings and traditional block printing
- Pottery, fishing gear, and clay dolls
The festival has witnessed strong participation from the public and students, fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation.
Local Products Drawing Tourist Interest
Tourists have shown significant interest in local products showcased at the festival, including:
- Madugula halwa, a sweet delicacy from the region
- Araku coffee, known for its unique flavor
- Tribal crafts and traditional art forms
- Authentic traditional dishes that highlight local culinary heritage
This focus on local products not only boosts tourism but also supports artisans and small businesses, contributing to the economic vitality of the area.
