The three-day celebrations in Krishna district to mark the 500th anniversary of coronation of Vijayanagara emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya concluded on Saturday with a programme at Kondapalli fort. The fort was illuminated for the event.
Statue unveiled
Revenue Minister Dharmana Prasada Rao and others unveiled a seven-and-half-foot bronze statue, sculpted at a cost of Rs.2.05 lakh, on the banks of the Krishna opposite Rajiv Gandhi Park. The Krishna district administration arranged the statue.
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The Minister later inaugurated an outlet to sell Kondapalli toys at Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation stadium complex.
Mr. Prasada Rao urged the officials to promote Kondapalli toys that have a world wide reputation, by improving the facilities for artisans.
The Kondapalli fort was illuminated at its best for the grandeur. It was spruced up for revelry where the celebrations concluded on a grand note.
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Tribute
The speakers on the occasion said that the celebration of the 500{+t}{+h} year of coronation of Sri Krishnadevaraya was not only a tribute to a great son of the soil, but also an inspiration to one and all.
The celebrations would inspire future generations to emulate him about administration, valour, vision and welfare.
Golden era
Hailed as the ‘golden era' of prosperity, pomp and glory, the 16th century Vijayanagara empire was an epoch-making phase in Indian history, as the illustrious emperor a valiant warrior, great general and master military strategist had also sown the seeds of democratic administration, they said, adding he encouraged many artists that made him a favourite empire for the men of letters.
Mr. Prasada Rao and others said the Government, taking a cue from the great emperor, was working with exemplary dedication and commitment.
The welfare schemes, drinking and irrigation water schemes would reflect the Government's commitment, he said.
Animal Husbandry Minister K. Parthasarathy, Mayor M.V. Ratna Bindu, MLC Ilapuram Venkaiah, Vijayawada Central MLA Malladi Vishnu, district Collector Peeyush Kumar, Municipal Commissioner G. Ravi Babu, Joint Collector Gaurav Uppal and others were present.