BY RAVI R. PONANGI

Atlanta, Georgia: If numbers are indicators of 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’s celebration was 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.

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 in order 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.

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 the forefront whenever the community needs them. Dr. Ravi Sarma is a practicing physician in the field of hematology and medical oncology. He has been 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 the Hindu Temple of Atlanta, Riverdale. Dr. Adi Sesha Reddy, founder of APNA (Andhra Pradesh Physicians of North America) and well-known philanthropist, presented the award to Dr. Ravi Sarma and Dr. Seshu Sarma.

Dr. Adi Sesha Reddy explained the salient features of APNA Foundation. 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.