Vijayawada, Sep 24 (NationPress) On Wednesday, Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan participated in the Vijayawada Utsav in Andhra Pradesh. This marked his first official tour as the Vice-President of India, during which he, accompanied by his wife R. Sumathi, offered prayers at the Kanaka Durga Devi temple located atop Indrakeeladri.

Following this, he took part in the festivities at Punnami Ghat. Expressing his joy, he mentioned being thrilled to be in Vijayawada, marking his first visit outside of Delhi after assuming office. He stated that this visit would always hold a special place in his memory.

Radhakrishnan remarked that Andhra Pradesh resembles ‘Annapurna’ for the nation, highlighting the state’s progress across various sectors. He expressed optimism that a Viksit Andhra Pradesh would soon be realized.

He acknowledged the significant contribution of Andhra Pradesh entrepreneurs to the economy of the United States.

Praising Telugu culture and traditions, Radhakrishnan noted that the Vijayawada Utsav fosters unity and integration within society. He expressed hope that Vijayawada would evolve into one of the most magnificent cities in the country.

Distinguishing Navaratri from other festivals, he pointed out its nine-day celebration, emphasizing the importance of women in the worship of the goddess.

The Vijayawada Utsav, organized as part of the Dussehra celebrations, is a rich blend of cultural, musical, and literary activities.

Radhakrishnan toured various stalls at the event and enjoyed performances by artists.

Also present were Union Minister for Tourism and Health Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, State Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav, State Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath.

MP Sivanath mentioned that the Vijayawada Utsav, organized in collaboration with the government of Andhra Pradesh, ranks among the largest carnivals globally.

Union Minister Shekhawat described festivals as 'living libraries' of Indian values, revealing that over 3,000 artists are participating in 250 events as part of the Utsav, showcasing the synergy between culture and commerce.

Upon arrival at Gannavaram Airport, Vice-President Radhakrishnan and his wife were received by Governor Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, and his wife N. Bhuvaneswari.

Among the welcome party were Human Resources Development and Information Technology Minister Nara Lokesh, Labour Minister V. Subhash, Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, along with several MPs, MLAs, and senior officials.

After receiving a guard of honour from the police, he traveled to Vijayawada by road.

After the Utsav, Radhakrishnan proceeded to Tirupati for darshan at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple.