TAMA celebrates Deepavali with pomp and splendor
Dr. Ravi Sarma gets TAMA Life time achievement Award
By Ravi Ponangi
Atlanta, GA: If numbers are indicators for the strength and
success of any event, Deepavali celebrations organized by Telugu
Association of Metro Atlanta (TAMA) was a great hit. Over 1,500
people from the Telugu community converged on November 3, at the Meedowcreek High School in Atlanta.
Deepavali was celebrated in
all its color and gaiety. This year’ celebrations filled with
food, frolic, and entertainment. The festive atmosphere
generated a feeling of joy and happiness amongst attendees at
the venue. The parents with their children and participants in
the cultural program gathered at the school well in advance and
the event started on time. By conducting Deepavli celebrations
every year, TAMA is providing a platform for children and other
local artists to showcase their talents. This year’s celebration
was marked by the participation of more than 100 artists of all
age groups in the cultural events. The cultural events began
immediately after the general body elections when a new
executive committee was elected for 2008.
Dr. Adi sesha Reddy and Bala Indurti of
APNA foundation with Atlanta community
The cultural items included classical dances, Bollywood melodies
and folk songs presented by children. At the beginning, Ram
Durvasula, cultural coordinator, explained the significance of
Diwali. Another attraction of this year’s festival was the
presentation of Syam Yellamraju’s tastefully choreographed skit,
Bhale Jodi, in which five couples entertained the audience with
their dances and their skills in managing their spouses in
day-to-day life. Organizers kept this as the last item of the
day purposefully to sustain the interest of the packed audience
till the end of the celebration. The couples danced and acted
with full force and vigor to showcase their skills.
Participants and judges in a skit Bhale Jodi
Other events in the spectacular celebration included honoring
Dr. P. Ravi Sarma and Dr. Seshu Sarma with TAMA lifetime
achievement award in recognition of their literary, cultural and
community services for more than two decades. The doctor couple
is always in forefront whenever the community needs them. Dr.
Ravi Sarma is a practicing physician in the field of hematology
and medical oncology. He is an active Indian community leader in
the Atlanta area for many years, participating as a speaker,
guest panelist and interviewee for various media and
organizations. He is the current president of Hindu Temple of
Atlanta. Dr. Adi Sesha Reddy, founder of APNA and well-known
philanthropist, presented the award to Dr. Ravi Sarma and Dr.
Seshu Sarma.
Dr. Adi Sesha Reddy explained salient features of APNA
Foundation and requested audience to attend the APNA Day to be
held in Atlanta on December 1st. APNA promotes charitable
activities primarily in Andhra Pradesh, India. The activities
include but not limited to educational, scientific, cultural,
and healthcare fields. The primary focus will be in the
healthcare sector. The Deepavali celebration concluded with a
scrumptious dinner served by Minerva Restaurant.
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