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Inaugural of UK Telugu Association – 18 July 2010


Dr. A. Chakrapani, Chairman, Andhra Pradesh State Legislative Council & NRI Committee inaugurated UK Telugu Association (UKTA), in the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, West Kensington, London. On this occasion the eminent Carnatic musician Dr. M. Balamurali Krishna was felicitated by the chief guest Dr. Chakrapani. The citation hailed Dr. M. Balamurali Krishna’s contribution to music, both as a singer and a composer and listed his achievements as the recipient of various awards including the prestigious Padma Vibhushan.

The UKTA is essentially a platform, for bringing together non residents Indians from all over Andhra Pradesh and those who speak Telugu, so that they can share ideas and opinions and mutually support each other. The main focus of UKTA will be on students and IT professionals. There is no membership fee and anyone can join through its website, www.uktas.org.uk.

Dr. Chakrapani conveyed the message from Mr. K. Rosaiah, Hon. Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, expressing his happiness at the formation of UKTA and assuring the support of the state government. The Chief Minister expressed his desire that the government would work for the benefit of the Telugu people living away from the motherland. Dr. Chakrapani in his speech said that he was well aware of the problems faced by Telugu’s living abroad and that he would ensure they receive maximum support from the state government back home. He also said that his government would provide support in cultural, language and social spheres.

Mr. Lakshmi Narayan, Head of TCS, UK congratulated the UKTA and extended his full support to the students.

Mr. Prabhakar Kaza, the President of UKTA in speech stated that people from all parts of Andhra Pradesh and all those who had any association with Andhra Pradesh or Telugu were welcome to join the UKTA and the association will have no caste or religious allegiance. He also read out the message received from Jeremy Hunt, Minister for Culture, Media and Sport, who stated that he was sure that the UK Telugu Association would thrive and meet its goals of promoting community spirit, culture and harmony amongst Telugus in the UK.

A memorable part of the event was a scintillating performance of dance and music by the students of Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan, especially the dances to the songs composed by Dr. Balamurali Krishna.

In conclusion, Dr. Balamurali Krishna expressed his happiness for being felicitated by UKTA and blessed UKTA that it should fullfil the meaning of its name and work with Yuktam (Intelligence, Brilliance) and Yogyam (Integrity).





Guests– Dr. Madina Rama Krishna, Dr. Govardhana Reddy, Mr. Shravan Lattupally, Mr. Jaya Kumar G, Mr. Prabhakar Kaza, Mr. Lakshmi Narayan, Dr. A. Chakrapani, Dr. Balamurali Krishna and Dr Saraswati Sundaresan.




Kathak dance by the students of Shri. Abhaya Shankar Mishra of Baratiya Vidya Bhavan




Bharatanatyam by students of Shri. Prakash Yedugude, of Baratiya Vidya Bhavan.




Dr. Balamurali Krishna lightning the lamp




Dr A. Chakrapani, presenting the sanmana patram to Dr. Balamurali Krishna


Vote of thanks by Mr. Shravan Lattupally





Dr A. Chakrapani, felicitating Dr. Balamurali Krishna with memento.


Dr. Balamurali Krishna’s addresses the audience and responds to sanmanam.