Reflections of Telugu Wedding Traditions in Annamaya's Literature- Dr Usharani

Dr. Usharani, Head of the Telugu Department at Government College, Chittoor, stated that Telugu wedding traditions and customs are vividly reflected in the keertanas of Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya, beautifully blending devotion and cultural values. As part of the 523rd death anniversary celebrations of Sri Annamacharya, the literary seminars being held at Annamacharya Kalamandiram in Tirupati reached their third day on Wednesday.

Presiding over the session, Dr. Usharani delivered a lecture on the topic “Annamayya – Kalyana Sankeertanas.” She explained that Annamayya portrayed the social conditions and traditions of his time through his compositions. The wedding songs describing the divine marriage of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Alamelu Manga are still prominently sung in Telugu weddings, reflecting rituals and devotional spirit. She highlighted that traditions like Mangala Harati, Talambraalu songs, and Nalugu songs hold a special place in Annamayya’s compositions.

TTD Publications Department Deputy Editor Dr. Narasimhacharya spoke on “Annamayya – Narasimha Keertanas.” He mentioned that a temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha existed in Hampi as early as the 1400s, and that Annamayya composed six keertanas praising Lord Narasimha. He added that Annamayya visited various temples in Hampi and vividly described the grandeur and social life of that era. By incorporating the places he visited into his compositions, Annamayya provided valuable historical insights. He also noted that Annamayya brought devotional philosophy to the masses through lyrical poetry, moving beyond traditional prose and verse forms.

Retired scholar Dr. Venkataramana Reddy from Tirupati spoke on “Annamayya – Philosophy.” He explained that Annamayya’s compositions promote detachment, renunciation, and freedom from worldly desires, guiding people toward spirituality and the path of liberation. He described Annamayya as a महानీయుడు who brought Vedantic philosophy closer to common people through the sweetness of devotion. He emphasized that through nama sankeertana and chanting, one can attain the divine beyond barriers of caste, creed, and religion.

The event was attended by TTD Annamacharya Project Special Officer Dr. Medasani Mohan, Director Smt. Latha, other officials, and members of the public.

At Annamacharya Kalamandiram:

At 6 PM, a devotional music program will be presented by Sri Kodandaramaiah’s troupe from Vijayawada, followed by a performance by Sri Raghunath’s troupe from Tirupati at 7 PM.

At Mahati Kalakshetram:

At 6 PM, Smt. Bullemma’s troupe from Tirupati will perform, followed by a music concert by Smt. Sridevi’s troupe at 7 PM.