Telugu, often called “Italian of the East”, is more than just a language; its art, history and emotion. And for two days, that whole world finds its way to the lawns of NALSAR. What began years ago as a small corner of Southie Fest has grown into one of the most loved and awaited traditions on campus. Two days that break the routine a little, familiar music, friends running around with plates of food, the smell of home in the air. It’s the kind of chaos that feels right.
The first evening is when it all starts to come alive. Stalls line up with mirchi bajji, lukmi, and other street foods that taste like old city evenings. There’s a flash mob that always surprises no one but still makes everyone cheer, followed by the deep beats of dappulu and marfa that pull everyone, Telugu or not, into rhythm. As the night slows, people gather for a movie screening, the kind that makes you rethink physics, but will always leave you smiling. And then comes dinner: the kind you wait all year for. Mutton biryani that silences every table, pulihora and bobbatlu that taste like comfort, gongura pickle and the every Telugu person’s favourite mudda pappu and avakaya. It’s basically a love letter in the form of a meal.
At Telugu Fest, the stage is buzzing from the start to finish. Batch performances bring together folk beats, film songs, and marfa, creating a mix of tradition and energy. Students from every year and programme join in and everyone ends up dancing even those who swore they wouldn’t.
The food is impossible to ignore, especially given its importance in Telugu culture. Plates piled with food vanish quickly.
Decor transforms the campus into Telugu streets. Last year’s theme, Telugu Melas, recreated bazaars from Andhra and Telangana, complete with stalls, lights, and bright colours. Every corner felt lively and ready for photos.
