Festivals

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — The city of Gudivada welcomed the Telugu New Year, Ugadi (Vishwavasu Nama Samvatsaram), with traditional fervor on March 29-30, 2025. Residents gathered at temples and community halls, where Panchanga Patana (reading of the astrological almanac), special prayers, and rituals marked the beginning of the new year. Colorful decorations, rangoli, and mango leaf adornments brought a festive charm to homes and streets.  Morning rituals started early, with elders performing puja and seeking blessings. The tradition of preparing Ugadi Pachidi — a sweet-tangy mix symbolizing the flavors of life — was observed in many households. Community kitchens and local temples also offered maha prasadam so that people from all walks of life could partake in the celebrations. Key Points / Highlights: Ugadi (Vishwavasu Nama Samvatsaram) observed with Panchanga reading, pujas, and rituals in Gudivada. Ugadi Pachidi and maha prasadam made available via temples / community kitchens. Cultural events: dance, music, rangoli across neighborhoods. Decorations with mango leaves, rangoli; emphasis on eco-friendly materials. Community spirit, renewal, and hopes expressed for the new year.

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — As part of the annual Sankranti celebrations, the much-anticipated bull race kicked off at the K Convention Centre on Lingavaram Road. Scheduled from January 11 to 15, the event brings together farmers and participants from across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This year, the organizers expect around 170 pairs of bulls to compete in racing and “boulder pulling” categories. The event is being conducted by the NTR 2 YSR Charitable Trust, and arrangements are in place for food, accommodation, and safety protocols for both participants and spectators. Civil Supplies Minister Kodali Nani will inaugurate the race. A cash prize pool totaling ₹18 lakh is being offered to the winners.  Farmers are viewing this as more than a competition; it’s a celebration of the agricultural community and tradition. With Sankranti being a harvest festival, the bull race has become an important cultural event in Gudivada, adding excitement to the festivities. Organizers have taken care to ensure that the bulls are handled humanely and that proper veterinary support is available.  Key Points / Highlights: Bull race from Jan 11-15 at K Convention Centre, Lingavaram Road.  ~170 pairs of bulls expected; includes “boulder pulling” competitions. ₹18 lakh total prize money. Emphasis on safety, accommodation, and veterinary care. 

Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh — The city of Gudivada embraced the Diwali spirit as residents decorated homes and streets with colorful lights, diyas, and rangoli. Families gathered together to perform Lakshmi Puja, seeking prosperity and happiness. Markets were bustling as people purchased sweets, gifts, and festive decorations. Community halls and local temples organized cultural programs, including dance performances, music recitals, and competitions for children. The city administration coordinated with local police to ensure safety during the celebrations, especially in areas with large gatherings. Fireworks and sparklers added a colorful dimension to the celebrations, with safety awareness campaigns conducted in schools and neighborhoods. Residents were also reminded to use eco-friendly fireworks to reduce pollution and maintain public safety. Key Highlights: Streets and homes illuminated with traditional lamps and lights Lakshmi Puja performed in households and temples Cultural programs and competitions in community halls Eco-friendly fireworks and safety campaigns promoted

This year’s Dussehra celebrations in Gudivada highlighted the importance of environmental awareness. Organizers implemented eco-friendly decorations and materials, and community members participated in cleanliness drives to maintain the town’s beauty. Workshops on environmental awareness were conducted to educate the public on sustainable practices, and recycling initiatives were introduced to minimize waste during the festivities. Key Highlights: Use of eco-friendly materials and decorations Community participation in cleanliness and recycling initiatives Educational workshops on environmental sustainability Promotion of sustainable practices during celebrations

Gudivada witnessed vibrant celebrations during the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival this year. Local communities came together to install elaborately decorated Ganesh idols in various neighborhoods. The streets were adorned with lights and rangolis, creating a festive atmosphere. Devotees participated in processions, singing devotional songs and dancing, culminating in the immersion of idols in nearby water bodies. The event not only showcased religious fervor but also highlighted the town’s strong community spirit. Key Highlights: Over 50 community-organized Ganesh pandals across Gudivada Increased participation of youth in cultural programs Local businesses reported a surge in sales of traditional items Enhanced cleanliness drives post-immersion to maintain environmental hygiene