About the Telugu Association
Telugu, one of the classical languages of India, boasts a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. Belonging to the Dravidian language family, it is predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with a significant presence in other parts of India and among the global Telugu diaspora. The language traces its origins to inscriptions dating back to the 6th century CE, with the earliest known inscription found in the 575 CE Renati Cholas era. Telugu literature flourished during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire, particularly under the patronage of Emperor Krishnadevaraya, whose court poets contributed to the golden age of Telugu poetry.
The 11th-century scholar Nannaya is regarded as the first poet of Telugu literature, initiating the translation of the Sanskrit Mahabharata into Telugu. Over the centuries, the language has evolved, embracing influences from Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Persian, while maintaining its unique linguistic and phonetic characteristics. Recognized as one of India’s six classical languages due to its long-standing literary tradition and historical significance, Telugu continues to be a medium of cultural expression through literature, cinema, and music, preserving the legacy of its rich past while adapting to modern influences.
Andhra Pradesh, known as the “Rice Bowl of India,” is a state steeped in history, culture, and economic significance. Located along the southeastern coast of India, it is the seventh-largest state by area and one of the leading producers of rice, seafood, and spices. The region has a glorious past, having been ruled by powerful dynasties such as the Satavahanas, Pallavas, Cholas, and the Vijayanagara Empire, which contributed immensely to its architectural and cultural heritage. The state is home to several iconic landmarks, including the ancient temple town of Tirupati, the historical port city of Visakhapatnam, and the Buddhist heritage sites of Amaravati and Nagarjunakonda.
Andhra Pradesh is also renowned for its classical dance form, Kuchipudi, which has gained international recognition. While agriculture has traditionally been the backbone of the state’s economy, rapid industrialization, IT development, and infrastructure growth have positioned Andhra Pradesh as an emerging hub for business and technology. The state continues to uphold its cultural traditions while embracing modernization, making it a dynamic and vibrant part of India.
Telangana, India’s youngest state, was officially formed on June 2, 2014, after being carved out of Andhra Pradesh. Rich in history and culture, Telangana has been an important centre of power for dynasties such as the Kakatiyas, Qutub Shahis, and Asaf Jahis (Nizams of Hyderabad). The state’s capital, Hyderabad, is a bustling metropolis known for its IT industry, historic monuments like the Charminar and Golconda Fort, and its world-famous Hyderabadi cuisine. Telangana’s landscape is marked by diverse geographical features, from the Godavari and Krishna River basins to the rocky terrain of the Deccan Plateau.
The state has a unique cultural blend of Telugu and Persian influences, evident in its architecture, language, and traditions. While Hyderabad is the economic powerhouse driving the state’s IT and pharmaceutical industries, Telangana is also known for its rich tradition of folk arts, such as Perini Sivatandavam and Bathukamma, a floral festival celebrating womanhood and nature. With a rapidly growing economy, thriving educational institutions, and a strong cultural identity, Telangana continues to evolve as a progressive state while preserving its linguistic and historical heritage.