Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh has a rich and varied culture. For many years now, Hindus, Muslims and Christians have been living here in perfect harmony here sharing customs and traditions. A lot of festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm, crossing language and religious barriers. With its traditional music and dance forms such as Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, and unique arts and crafts, Andhra Pradesh has carved a niche for itself on the cultural map of India.

Because of various dynasties that ruled the state through the centuries, Andhra has seen an amalgamation of cultures which is depicted in its art forms, festivals and also its cuisine. Andhra Pradesh is famous for its handlooms, Bidri craft, Nirmal art and lacquerware. Lac bangles from Hyderabad are famous all over India. Handloom sarees from Andhra are very much sought after, particularly Kalamkari and Ikat handlooms from Gadwal. Dharmavaram, Pochampalli and Venkatagiri.

Andhra is home to many dance forms. Besides the well known Kuchipudi dance, there are other folk dances like Lambadi, Burrakatha etc. Andhra Pradesh’s contribution to the world of music has been immense. Many of renowned classical musician Thyagaraja’s lyrics find their roots in Telugu, the language spoken in Andhra.

People of Andhra celebrate all major festivals like Dussehra, Diwali, Ramzan and Christmas. Apart from these, there is Ugadi which is the Telugu New Year and Pongal or Sankranti which is the harvest festival. The State Government also organizes a lot of fairs and festivals like the Deccan festival and the Visakha festival which promote tourism in the state.