The Flamingo Festival 2026 began in a grand and colourful manner on Saturday morning in Sullurpeta, filling the town with festive spirit and cultural energy. The festival, organised to create awareness about the conservation of migratory birds and to promote tourism, was inaugurated with a massive procession from Holy Cross Circle at the town entrance to the Government Junior College Arch. The opening parade was formally flagged off by Nellore Vijayasree and Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, marking the official start of the celebrations.
The grand procession became a visual treat for the public as it moved through the main streets of Sullurpeta. Traditional drum performances by dappu artists created an energetic atmosphere, while the sweet melodies of nadaswaram ensembles echoed along the route. Folk dances such as kolatams and vibrant pamba performances added colour and rhythm to the celebrations. Artists dressed in bright and creative costumes impressed spectators with their traditional expressions and lively movements.
Special mythological performances were a major highlight of the event. Artists portraying scenes from the Arjuna–Duryodhana episode, along with characters like Anjaneya, Narasimha Swamy and Haridasulu, captivated audiences of all age groups. Children and families lined the streets to watch the performances, turning the procession into a joyful community gathering.
The festival gained further prominence with the participation of S. Venkateswar, who joined the procession and interacted with artists and visitors. Speaking on the occasion, the Collector stressed the importance of protecting migratory birds, especially around Pulicat Lake. He said environmental protection and tourism development must go hand in hand and urged local communities to actively support conservation efforts.
Several dignitaries attended the event, including former MP Nelavala Subrahmanyam, Sullurpeta RDO Kiranmayi, Municipal Chairman Srimanth Reddy, DWMA PD Srinivasa Prasad, and Municipal Commissioner Chinnaiah, along with other public representatives and officials. A large turnout of residents and visitors turned the town into a lively celebration zone.
As part of Flamingo Festival–2026, various cultural programmes and nature-based activities have been planned for tourists. Awareness sessions on migratory birds and biodiversity conservation are also being organised. Officials believe the festival will strengthen Sullurpeta’s identity on the tourism map and encourage sustainable eco-tourism in the region.
