The cultural extravaganza Lokmanthan 2024 commenced amidst a grand display of folklore and tradition in Bhagyanagar (Hyderabad) on November 21. Organised by Prajna Pravah, this biennial festival is a confluence of intellectual discourse and cultural celebration aimed at reviving Bharat’s traditional and spiritual values. The event will run from November 21 to 24, offering a rich tapestry of discussions, performances, exhibitions, and academic events.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the iconic Silparamam Sampradaya Vedika, witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including former Vice-President Sri M. Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister for Coal and Mines Sri G. Kishan Reddy, Telangana’s Minister of Culture Sri Jupalli Krishna Rao, and Sri T. Hanuman Chowdary, Chairperson of Pragna Bharati.
In his inaugural address at Lokmanthan 2024, former Vice President Sri Naidu commended Prajna Pravah and the collaborating organisations for their dedication to preserving Bharat’s cultural legacy. He stressed the importance of such festivals in fostering a sense of pride in India’s rich traditions and breaking free from colonial mindsets.
“Our Sanatana Dharma is a glorious and sacred tradition,” he remarked, “one that reveres nature in all its forms—feeding cows, snakes, and birds, and worshipping every element of the environment. It is a way of life that teaches harmony with nature.”
Turning to the audience, he urged, “Take pride in the traditions and culture passed down by our ancestors. Today, as you witness the performances of tribal artists, especially those from Chhattisgarh, reflect on their talent and heritage. It is our duty to identify, encourage, and support such communities so that their contributions continue to enrich our society.”
Sri Naidu highlighted how organisations like Pragna Bharati and Prajna Pravah have tirelessly worked to strengthen Indian culture, philosophy, and literature. Yet, he lamented the gradual erosion of these values in modern times. “Earlier, we had music, literature, and art that nourished the soul. Today, much of what we hear is noise, not music. This happened because we have strayed from our cultural roots.”
He also addressed the influence of colonialism, saying, “The British not only stole our wealth but also our thoughts, leaving us overly reliant on English today.” Drawing a vivid analogy, he added, “Your mother tongue is like your eyesight, while English is like a pair of spectacles. Without eyesight, even the fanciest Ray-Ban glasses are useless. First, learn your mother tongue; then, your brother tongue; and only after that, any other language.”
Sri Naidu illustrated his point with personal anecdotes. “When I became Vice President, some officials suggested I should change my attire. I told them, ‘There will be no change of dress, only a change of address.’ This is the pride we should all have in our culture and traditions.”
Addressing the youth, he offered a simple yet profound message: “Nature and culture together make a bright future. Remember this, and you will succeed in life.”
He also emphasised that Yoga is a universal gift. “Yoga is not tied to any religion; it is for the body, mind, and soul. If you have tension, you cannot have attention. Without attention, there can be no retention of ideas.”
As he concluded, Sri Naidu called for collective participation in cultural preservation. “Peace is the prerequisite for progress. I urge everyone here and from neighbouring states to visit this wonderful program. Let us celebrate and uphold the legacy of our ancestors and ensure it thrives for generations to come.”
Hon’ble Minister of Culture and Tourism in Telangana state Government, Sri Jupalli Krishna Rao also commended Lokmanthan organisers and thanked them for the opportunity of the State Government partnering with Lokmanthan in this great festival. He welcomed the thousands of participants attending the festival and extorted them to immerse themselves in the cultural experience.
Hon’ble Union Minister for Coal & Mines Sri G Kishan Reddy in his remarks stated that eminent thinkers, writers and intellectuals, hundreds of artists including Lok artists, would participate in the grand festival. 2500 delegates are participating in the Lokmanthan conclave from November 22nd to 24th which will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble President of India Smt Draupadi Murmu. RSS Sarsanghchalak Sri Mohan Bhagwat will be present on all three days and will guide the event. Union Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitaraman and Union Minister Sri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat too would grace the festival. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the people of Telangana that Lokmanthan is being held in Bhagyanagar. All people are invited to enjoy the cultural performances, art exhibitions and stalls that are put up in Silparamam. The event will focus on the important themes of family system, environment, civic responsibilities and contemporary issues.
Dwisahasravadhani Sri Madugula Nagaphani Sarma, an exponent of the unique Telugu literary feat Avadhanam graced the occasion and blessed Lokmanthan with his extempore poetry in Sanskrit and Telugu.
Sri Ravindra Bharati from Samskara Bharati & Lokmanthan Reception committee felicitated the dignitaries on the stage and presented the vote of thanks. The inaugural event concluded with the Santhi Mantra.
In continuation of the inaugural day events, cultural celebrations will continue at Shilparamam in the evening with a series of enriching programs designed to showcase the diversity and depth of Bharat’s artistic traditions. The events will start with Ashtavadhanam by Avadhani Dr. Madugula Nagaphani Sharma, a rare and intellectually stimulating performance that demonstrates the ancient tradition of mental agility and poetic mastery. This will be followed by Kalasankarshini Pravesh by Smt. N. Rachana, a graceful and spiritually uplifting art form that blends dance and music. Adding an international flavour, the Armenia Group will present a musical performance, offering a cross-cultural experience for the audience.
Bharat ki Beti, a powerful program by Samskara Bharati, will pay tribute to the strength and resilience of women in Indian society. The evening will also feature a Jugalbandi performance by Dr. Y. Venkateswara Rao & party, showcasing the harmonious interplay between different classical music forms.
To conclude the evening, Smt. Begum Batool will present a soulful Bhajan – Kirtan, inviting the audience to engage in devotional singing and spiritual reflection. This evening promises to be a spectacular fusion of intellectual, musical, and spiritual expressions. Lokmanthan presents an excellent opportunity for the people of Bhagyanagar to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Bharat.
The Lokmanthan festival is free and open to all, providing an enriching experience for people from all walks of life.
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