Avakai-Amaravati 2026: AP CM Chandrababu Naidu Ignites a Cultural Revolution on the Krishna Banks - AP Events

 

The banks of the Krishna River transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors, flavors, and melodies as the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, officially inaugurated the "Avakai-Amaravati" Cultural Festival.¹

Held at the scenic Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada, this three-day extravaganza (January 8–10, 2026) is more than just a festival—it is a bold statement of Andhra Pradesh’s cultural identity and its ambition to become a global tourism hub.

A Tribute to Heritage: Why "Avakai"?

During his keynote address, CM Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the symbolic power of Avakai (the iconic mango pickle). "Avakai is synonymous with Andhra Pradesh," Naidu stated. "It represents our resilience, our spice for life, and our deep-rooted traditions."

By branding the Amaravati festival with this culinary legend, the government aims to take the essence of Telugu heritage to the global stage, bridging the gap between ancient customs and the modern "creative economy."

Highlights of the Avakai-Amaravati Fest

The festival kicked off with a grand procession of giant puppets and traditional Teen Maar drummers, setting a high-energy tone. Here’s what makes this festival a must-visit:

1. Cinema, Culture & Literature

The fest features 28 specialized programs and 4 immersive workshops. Discussions explore the glorious journey of Telugu cinema—from the early days of Bhakta Prahlada to the global phenomenon of Baahubali.

2. The Riverfront Transformation

Moving away from conventional indoor halls, the event spans Punnami Ghat, Berm Park, and Bhavani Island.

• Houseboat Tourism: The CM launched new luxury tourism houseboats, offering a fresh way to experience the Krishna River.

• Evening Aarti: A spiritual Jala Harathi was offered to the river, creating a serene atmosphere against the backdrop of the Kanaka Durga Temple.

3. A Culinary Paradise

Food stalls at the venue showcase the best of Andhra cuisine. From the fieriest pickles to traditional sweets, the fest highlights why Andhra hospitality is celebrated worldwide.

4. Global Diplomacy

In a notable show of international interest, the European Union Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, joined the festivities. His presence underscores the state's growing appeal as a destination for cultural exchange and investment.

The Vision: Amaravati as the Cultural Capital

CM Naidu’s vision for the state involves balancing high-tech growth with cultural preservation. He announced that:

• Visakhapatnam will be the AI hub of the state.

• Amaravati will be developed as a "Literary and Cultural Capital."

• Upcoming festivals like Flamingo (Nellore), Araku (Vizag), and Gandikota (Kadapa) will be elevated to international standards to boost tourism and create jobs for local artists.

"If we forget our traditions, we forget our history," Naidu warned, urging the youth to carry forward the legacy of their ancestors while mastering the "smart work" of the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Avakai-Amaravati Festival?

It is a multidisciplinary cultural festival organized by the AP Tourism Authority and Teamwork Arts. It celebrates Telugu cinema, literature, music, and the culinary heritage of Andhra Pradesh.

2. Is there an entry fee for the festival?

No, the festival is open to the public, and entry to the events at Punnami Ghat and Bhavani Island is free.

3. What were the key announcements made by CM Chandrababu Naidu?

The CM launched new tourism houseboats and announced plans to make Andhra Pradesh a global host for tourism. He also emphasized developing Amaravati as a cultural hub and Vizag as an AI center.

4. Who organized the event?

The event is an initiative of the Government of Andhra Pradesh, organized by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority (APTA) in association with Teamwork Arts (the producers of the Jaipur Literature Festival).

5. What can food lovers expect at the fest?

Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of traditional Andhra delicacies, with a special focus on different varieties of Avakai (mango pickle) and authentic regional snacks.