₹1.2 Crore Sanctioned for Gurajada Apparao Auditorium in Vizianagaram

The Andhra Pradesh government has sanctioned ₹1.2 crore for the construction of a multipurpose auditorium adjacent to the residence of noted playwright Gurajada Apparao, author of the classic Kanyasulkam, in Vizianagaram.

The decision, facilitated through the initiative of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, follows renewed appeals from writers and poets seeking a dedicated cultural space in the name of Gurajada Apparao. The proposal, pending for nearly two decades, has now received formal approval.

Officials confirmed that land required for the project had already been acquired near the heritage structure and that construction is expected to begin shortly. District Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy has directed officials to prepare architectural designs incorporating modern facilities suitable for literary and cultural programmes.

Family members of Gurajada Apparao, including Gurajada Venkateswara Rao and Gurajada Indira, welcomed the government’s decision. They also appreciated the allocation of ₹12 lakh for the restoration of the heritage house.

Ms. Indira said that preserving the writer’s residence along with developing a well-equipped auditorium would serve as a fitting tribute to his legacy. She added that the facility would provide a valuable platform for writers, poets, and cultural organisations to conduct literary events and discussions.

Representatives of literary bodies, including Abhyudaya Rachayitala Sangham general secretary Ratnala Balakrishna and Gidugu Ramamurthy Telugu Bhasha and Janapada Kalapeetham founder Badri Kurma Rao, urged the authorities to complete the project within a year, describing it as a long-awaited cultural asset for the region.