Araku Utsav ‘Chali’ festival begins amid cultural fervour

The three-day Araku Utsav, popularly known as the ‘Chali’ festival, got off to a vibrant start at Araku Valley in Alluri Sitharama Raju district on Thursday. The event is being held alongside the ongoing Visakha Utsav celebrations.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who was scheduled to inaugurate the festival, could not attend. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh and Tribal Welfare Minister Gummadi Sandhya Rani took part in the inaugural programme instead. The ministers laid foundation stones for key tourism projects, including a tent city at Lambasingi and homestay facilities at Maredumilli. They also felicitated local tribal artistes for their contribution to preserving traditional art forms.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is expected to attend the festival on Friday, January 30.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Durgesh said such festivals play a vital role in protecting local culture while accelerating regional development. He said the coalition government aims to create tourism-based employment opportunities for at least one member of every family over the next decade.

The minister described Araku as a region blessed with scenic valleys, cool weather, lush greenery, and fresh air, offering visitors a refreshing experience. He said tourists who spend even a single day in Araku leave with a deep sense of joy.