A group of students were busy giving finishing touches to an elaborate rangoli design. Makeshift stalls were arranged to offer traditional snacks and refreshments.
At the entrance, a well-decorated ‘Gangireddu’ was following instructions of its master meticulously.
A large quantity of steaming hot ‘pongal’ was getting cooked. Holding a ‘tambura’ in a hand and an ‘akshaya patra’ on the head, the famous Haridasu was seen walking around.
A festive atmosphere prevailed on the premises of Mrs. A.V.N. College as students and lecturers celebrated ‘Sankranti’ on Friday, ahead of the ‘pedda panduga’.
With peppy songs playing in the background, the venue turned into a dance floor where students and a few teachers swayed together, trying to outdo each other.
Those who took part in a row of programmes mentioned that ushering in the festive spirit as a team will always add to the fun-element and the premises provided an apt ground for the same. Mixing the ‘pongal’ with a long ladle, Sandeep, a B.Com student, said he always looked forward to such combined celebrations as he could bring out his culinary skills.
According to the college’s Assistant Professor of Mathematics and event coordinator N. Ramakrishna, the festival celebration was aimed at reviving Telugu tradition and culture.
“The younger generation has to be exposed to the traditional way of celebrating ‘Sankranti’.
In the technology-driven world, the rural setting and activities followed in a village have to be taught to the students.
The programme iwas organised to help students connect with people and rural charm,” he said.