Marriage at Hitex reception at Naravaripalli

Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N. Chandrababu Naidu's son Nara Lokesh Naidu will marry well-known Telugu film actor Nandamuri Balakrishna's daughter Brahmani on Aug 27.
Balakrishna is the brother-in-law of Naidu and son of thespian and TDP founder late N.T. Rama Rao.
The marriage ceremony will be held at Hitex near Hitec City here while Naidu will host a reception the next day at Naravaripalli in Chittor district, his native village.
Sources close to the Naidu family said Chandrababu Naidu would offer the first invitation to Lord Venkateswara at the famous Tirumala temple Wednesday.
Lokesh and Brahmani were engaged June 24 at the actor's house in Jubilee Hills here.
Sources said Naidu would keep the marriage ceremony a simple affair like the engagement, and only close family members and friends would be invited. Nobody from the TDP or other political parties was invited to the engagement ceremony.
Lokesh is studying for an MBA in Stanford University in the US, while Brahmani is studying engineering in Hyderabad.
Naidu had unseated his father-in-law NTR from power in 1995. The popular actor-turned politician died in January 1996. Naidu served as the chief minister till 2004.
The marriage of his son with Balakrishna's daughter is being seen as an attempt by Naidu to mend fences with NTR's family.

Who is visiting professor, Mr Naidu?

Former Chief Minister and Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu seems to have realised that it is not going to be as easy as he thinks to return to power in the 2009 elections.

That is why he is trying to find excuses for the future debacle. It is evident from the way Naidu is shifting the blame on to the party leaders for keeping away from the people and remaining mere "visiting professors." As a matter of fact, Naidu himself has to be blamed for the sorry State of affairs in the party. The TD president is only adopting an ad hoc approach to the issues and doesn't have any concrete plans of action on any specific issue. The leaders are confined to issuing press statements, rather than chalking out agitational programmes on the issues concerning the common man, whether it is rise in prices of essential commodities or irregularities in Indiramma housing scheme.

There is no direction from the NTR Bhavan on any of the programmes and the so-called spokespersons of the party are issuing press statements at their will, without any coordination or cohesion. Rajya Sabha member M V Mysoora Reddy has his own style of attacking the Congress government on the issues concerning his interests, while former minister Kodela Sivaprasada Rao talks about corruption. While Naidu is busy lobbying with the national leaders, there is absolutely no plan or programme to come closer to the people. The TD president is living in a fool's paradise, if he thinks the TD would come to power only with anti-establishment vote!!

More than $500000 raised for NTR Memorial Trust

CBN’s meet and greet in NJ: More than half a million dollars raised for NTR Memorial Trust

The NRI Telugu of the North East USA and NRI TDP hosted a “meet and greet” program with Sri. Nara Chandra Babu Naidu, President of TDP and Former Chief Minister on July 4, 2007 at Royal Albert’s Palace.

The event was a resounding success and was a testimony to the tremendous sway of Sri CBN over the NRI Telugu community. More than half a million US dollars was raised for the NTR memorial trust during the fundraising lunch organized on this occasion. This is the highest sum ever raised by any Indian politician from one single city in USA.

Filled with yellow color banners, balloons, cutouts, posters, the atmosphere at the venue was electrifying with more than 3500 attendees, the who’s who of the American Telugu’s. This is the largest crowd ever gathered for any Indian Politician in USA.

CBN in his address as the chief guest’ address recalled that when his Government’s thrust on the key areas of development like infrastructure and information technology in the state had met with much criticism. But today his emphasis on IT stood vindicated. Today it is there for everyone to see the way the large number of IT professionals who moved to other countries is making the State proud of them by emerging as a force.

Citing how in terms of technology, India and even more specifically Andhra Pradesh has made giant strides, he related an incident to demonstrate how the latest and the best of cell phones are widely available in AP /India than advanced nations like US. Today with the growth, the airports have called for greater expansion.

Yet he said all the successful Telugus should partake in the welfare of the society, the underprivileged in their home land. They can make use of NTR memorial trust to chanelise their energies and contributions for the upliftment of the villages and the needy.

He also said that this is not an occasion to talk about politics, but reminisce the achievements and contributions of the Telugu’s and the greatness of Telugu culture and tradition. The speech was later followed by an absorbing Q&A session with Sri. Babu. He patiently answered wide range of queries from the audience including role of women in NRI Telugu initiatives and so on.

CBN thanked the attendees and program organizers for having him here and supporting his vision and leadership. Sri. Nagam Janardhan Reddy, Sri. Erraballi Dayakar Rao, Sri. Garikapati Rammohan Rao, Mr. Upendra Chivukula prominent Telugu from NJ and a Congressman, Mr. Jun Choi, Mayor of Edison, Mr. Umesh, NRI TDP Overseer, Smt. Uma Madhav Reddy, Mr. Pathuri Nagabhushanam also participated in the event.

Convener Mr. Brahmaji valiveti, in his address praised Sri CBN’s efforts for the present status of the NRI Telugus, and requested everyone to contribute as much as possible to India through NTR Memorial Trust.

As Sri CBN explained the purpose of NTR trust and requested the support of NRI Telugu community , contributions poured in. The most prominent among the donors for the NTR Memorial Trust were Mr. Pavan Kumar Darisi (donated Rs.1 crore), Mr. Narendar reddy (donated USD 50 thousand) Mr. Ramana Mannam (donated USD 50 thousand).

Prior to starting the main the program, Singers Usha, Gangadhar, Anitha Krishna kept the audience occupied with some wonderful singing and performances.

Co-convener Vasudeva Reddy Chinna proposed the vote of thanks and said Sri CBN has changed the perception of the young about politics and politicians in the past few decades. Under CBN we could feel a sense of direction for the state and its people, a definite vision. He thanked Sri CBN on behalf of all Telugus and specially the NRI Telugus for allowing them to hold their heads in high esteem…in any corner of the world. For giving them something to talk about the Present day AP … Present day India and Present day leaders, and not just the achievements of India of a bygone era.

Dulles Airport Welcome to CBN Reminds being in Hyd

July 5th, 2007 reminded me of one of the gathering during elections at home in Hyderabad or any other city in AP. There was a parade of yellow ars lined up to welcome TDP President Mr.Nara Chandrababu Naidu. In some ways, it reminded a well choreographed scene from many Telugu movies.

With the huge number of cars and people gathering, the private airport enterance was shutdown and the leaders were asked to use a special back door.

According to the security, this is the first time this was done in the history of Dulles Airport.

People flocked the cell phone waiting area specifically arranged with security for this purpose with yellow boquets, yellow dresses, yellow cars, yellow flags, yellow scarfs, yellow caps, yellow bands, yellow posters...For a few hours Dulles private waiting area looked so colorful as never before with the background of blue skies and a cool breeze sailing by. This extraordinary feat was the hardwork and dedication of many volunteers under the leadership of Satish Vemana. A glimpse of this for those absent...

Babu busy giving 'international' touch to his TDP!

Former chief minister and Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu has just returned from a three-nation political tour. Earlier he visited Australia and UAE. He has been in touch with the Telugu Desam sympathisers around the world. The feedback he received in person during his foreign tours and through the "knowledge forum" on the TD's NRI website, is being utilised to build up a new Telugu Desam, which gives importance to "young blood" and "social service".

With just two years away for the crucial State Assembly elections, Chandrababu Naidu is busy preparing a political and electoral strategy to present before people a new-look Telugu Desam, so that the voters in the State accept it at the hustings.

Chandrababu Naidu is in constant touch with around two million Telugu-speaking NRIs around the world and according to sources, he will prepare a report based on their feedback.

Once the feedback report is ready, armed with it, Chandrababu Naidu will take on the Congress at the 2009 May hustings.

NRIs Trapped Chandrababu For 'That'

Chandrababu Naidu was given bigger attention in his recent visit to USA by American-Telugus. The reason is that about 15-17 candidates are looking for TDP MLA Seats in next elections of 2009. We have to see how many will get tickets with this curry favor to Chandrababu Naidu. A strong rumor is circling that mails are hitting NTR Bhavan stating not to consider certain NRIs for MLA ticket or Party Membership due to their bad background. Thus the black sheep also started among BABUS in this MLA ticket hunt. On the other hand the TDP organized the NRI BABU SHOW very well and the team's organizational skills are highly acclaimed everywhere. They are very good at pooling funds and mobilizing people.

Chandrababu: NRIs will vote for me

Mr Naidu who returned from his 13-day foreign tour addressed a press conference here at NTR Trust Bhavan.

N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday said it is only a matter of time before Non-Resident Indians, particularly Telugus in the U.S., overtake Jews in all spheres of life, be it educational, social or political.

Speaking to reporters here on Monday on return from his tour of the United States of America, Canada and the United Kingdom, he said during his meetings with Indians and Telugus in 10 cities, he found astonishing levels of competence in their respective areas of work.

They have shown the world that hard work will pay, Mr. Naidu said, recalling that over the decades, it was the Jewish population that had proved their mettle.

Now, Indians and Telugus are strong, education-wise and on the socio-economic front and the only sector left to prove their leadership is politics, he said.

Naidu said all non-resident Telugus would vote for his party if they were given a chance. Describing his tour to the US, Canada and England as "most fruitful", Mr Naidu said the recently floated NRI-TD would work as a link between the NRIs and the party.

Denying reports that he had visited the US for fund rising, Mr Naidu said that he had toured extensively to create awareness on the Telugu language and culture.

TANA Highlights: Good, Bad and Ugly

The celebrations of TANA have completed successfully with the participation of many from Telugu community in Washington DC. Here are a few highlights of the event in nut shell.

1. Banquet party was huge success. But food arrangements disappointed many.
2. Entire TANA festival chanted Nandamuri and TDP mantra.
3. Balakrishna gave excellent performance as Srikrishna Deva Raya and Yamadharmaraju. But he disappointed with his speech as many couldn't able to understand.
4. Prabha gave excellent performance on stage.
5. Sunil gave extraordinarily entertaining performance.
6. M S Ramaiah's speech attracted many youngsters.
7. The ironic and funny side of TANA is Youth Program. The hosts conducting that spoke only in English while NBK promoting the flavor of speaking in TELUGU.
8. Total number of visitors around 8000-9000. The organizers are claiming 12000, but the actual figure is only around 8000. Some one on stage even claimed 16000.
9. Clinton keynote address at the conference opening.
10. Worst sound system. Many couldn't able to undetstand speeches.

MS Reddy as President, AP Film Chamber of Commerce

Detroit Telugu Association (DTA) has successfully hosted a dinner reception in honor of Sri. Nara Chandrababu Naidu during his visit to Detroit on Sunday, July 1, 2007. His visit is being coordinated by a group of his supporters under the banner “Detroit TDP” and this group has also sponsored the dinner reception, which was held from 6:00 PM to 12:00 Midnight at Burton Manor in Livonia, Michigan. The event was attended by more than 1200 people, who sat thru the end of the program which was delayed to almost midnight. It is highly unusual for people to stay back that late on a Sunday night.

Sri. Chandrababu Naidu was received at the Detroit City Airport by event organizing committee members Srinivas Chand Gorrepati, Srinivas Gonuguntla and Naveen Yerneni, by TANA President Hanumaiah Bandla and by the hundreds of cheering supporters. There was a festive mood outside the airport with Babu garu releasing a bunch of yellow balloons arranged by IT Professionals from Miracle Software Systems. He was chauffeured in a limousine from the airport to the banquet hall followed by a rally of cars organized by Vamsi Inapuri and group.

Sri. Naidu was received at the banquet hall by DTA Executive Committee, Detroit TDP Members and hundreds of cheering supporters who have been eagerly waiting for his arrival. The anxiousness of the audience to meet and greet him created an atmosphere similar to in India. He was ushered thru the photo exhibits by Smt. Bhavani Koneru and Smt. Radhika Munnangi, who put up the exhibits depicting the growth during his tenure. Photos for the exhibit were provided by Smt. Nannapaneni Rajakumari, which made it a unique attraction during Babu’s tour of US.

Sri. Naidu received a warm and traditional welcome from the women and youth as he walked into the banquet hall.

Ramana Mudeganti, DTA General Secretary and Mehar Velagapudi serving as the Masters of Ceremony introduced Sri. Naidu and all the accompanying dignitaries to the audience, who were called on to the stage. Dignitaries from AP included Nagam Janardhana Reddy, Yerrabilli Dayakar Rao, Garikipati Mohan Rao, Nannapaneni Rajakumari, Uma Madhava Reddy, Peddi Reddy and Chigurupati Vara Prasad. Dignitaries from US and specifically Detroit include Jayaram Komati (TANA Secretary), Mukkamala Appa Rao (President of Michigan Medical Society), Hanumaiah Bandla (TANA President), Madhava Reddy (CEO of HTC), Srinivasa Rao Kodali (Coordinator of 15th TANA Conference), Gangadhar Nadella (Past President of TANA), Srinivas Koneru (DTA President) and Srinivas Chand Gorrepati (Event Organizing Committee).

Srinivas Koneru, President of DTA welcomed the guests and the audience. During the welcome speech, he provided a glimpse of Sri. Naidu’s career in politics including his goals and achievements.

K. Umesh, CEO of NTR Trust described the activities of the Trust along with a video of NTR’s vision to help the under privileged. Venkat Aekka, Member of the NRI TDP National Committee kicked of the fund raising for NTR Trust with a powerful message about the need to help the poor. Venkat’s brief yet motivational speech ended with a quote from Sawmy Vivekananda about educated Indians needing to help fellow brethren.

Srinivas Chand Gorrepati, member of the event organizing committee highlighted the fact that the recent NRIs benefited from the higher education policy of Sri. Naidu i.e. engineering colleges and reminded the audience that it is time for us to pay back thru providing educational funds for the needy.

Dr. Appa Rao Mukkamala highlighted the growing disparity between the rich and poor in India and stressed on the need to help the poor to reach the benefits of the economic growth occurring in India. He motivated the audience with the “We Can, We Must and We Will” slogan to help the underprivileged. On behalf of the NRI Medical College, he pledged to provide free medical support to the mothers and infants in two mandals in AP as chosen by NTR Trust. This generosity translates to $100,000.

Sri. Naidu garu personally acknowledged all the donors and big donors include Naveen Yerneni ($36,000), Gangadhar Nadella ($25,000), Prasad Chukkapalli ($25,000). Total amount of donations pledged by the end of the evening was $225,000, which is the highest so far in Sri. Naidu’s tour.

Dr. Nagam Janardhana Reddy made a feisty speech about the state of affairs in Andhra Pradesh and Telugu Desam Party is keeping the ruling government in check on all fronts.

Sri. Chandra Babu Naidu spoke for more than an hour on various topics that affect the Telugus in India and abroad. His primary focus was on promoting Philanthropy for which he quoted Bill Gates and Warren Buffet as examples. He was philosophical at times reminding the audience that we may earn all our life but cannot take a penny when we die, which according to him was depicted well in the recent movie “Sivaji”. He stressed on the need for education and entrepreneurship to further enhance our lives and put Telugus at the forefront. He recognized Miss Subha Perni, a high school student from West Bloomfield, Michigan; who was recently selected as one of the 2007 Presidential Scholars and will be representing in a delegation to China. Sri. Naidu stressed on the point that his tour to US in not political but it is to promote philanthropy among the Telugus.

Sri. Naidu answered a few questions from audience on topics ranging from violence in movies to need for better health care.

Executive Committee of Detroit Telugu Association under the leadership of President Srinivas Koneru and Vice-President Vaninath Uppalapati presented a plaque to Sri. Naidu honoring him on his first ever visit to Detroit.

The program for the evening was ended with a Vote of Thanks by Srinivas Gonuguntla, member of the event organizing committee. The event was a grand success due to contributions from several volunteers, who deserve an applause and recognition. Guests including Sri. Naidu was very impressed with the arrangements and decorations in the banquet hall, which were done by Sirisha Uppalapati, Kavitha Velagapudi, Sirisha Ravipati, Vaninath Uppalapati, Meher Velagapudi and Raghu Ravipati. Due to the effective publicity of Sridhar Patel and his team, there were more than 1200 people in attendance. Registration process for so many people was smoothly handled by Srinivas Rayapareddi and team. There was also a play area for the children, which was organized by the DTA youth committee under the guidance of Padmaja Talluri. Audio visual effects were superb due to the efforts of Ramana Mudeganti, Jogeswara Rao Peddiboyina, Srinivas Raju Dhenuvakonda and Narendra Seth. All the guests were extremely happy with the delicious food provided by local Telugu restaurants as organized by Satish Mandalapu and team. Photo exhibits were setup by Radhika Munnangi and Bhavani Koneru.

Sri. Naidu spent couple of hours in the morning of July 2nd with CEOs of businesses owned by Telugus, Physicians and the Volunteers that made his first ever visit to Detroit a memorable event. Detroit Telugus are known for their hospitality and we exceeded our past performance in taking care of our guests, thanks in part to Srinivas Gonuguntla, Srinivas Dasari and their team. Transportation and security are very crucial in such high profile events, which were very well handled by Basavendra Surapaneni and Srinivasa Rao Kandela.

Gallery : CBN and Lokesh Dallas Visit

CBN raised about $140000 for NTR TRUST in SFO

Bay Area Telugu Community and NRI TDP hosted a meeting to “meet and greet” Sri. Nara Chandra Babu Naidu on June 29, 2007 at Sunnyvale Hindu Temple, Sunnyvale, California.

Bay Area Telugu community in coordination with NRI TDP in the Bay Area hosted an evening to meet with Andhra Pradesh (AP) Former Chief Minister Sri. Nara Chandra Babu Naidu (CBN) on June 29, 2007 at Sunnyvale Hindu Temple, Sunnyvale, California.

The venue was filled with yellow color banners, balloons, cutouts, posters, and people with yellow color outfits. Scores of Bay Area Telugu People have come to the events couple of hours ahead of the program start time. Due to which, the auditorium was full well prior to starting the event. It was noticed that hundreds of people were juggling to find standing room in the auditorium. The banners and posters in the auditorium depicted the various programs (such as Janma bhoomi, NTR Trust, Medical Camps, Distribution of food, etc). The stage and auditorium was filled with decorated like a wedding stage by artistic way of using yellow color balloons and other items.

When CBN and his colleagues found to be arriving to the venue, a huge bicycle rally took place in front of their vehicles. Up on arrival, CBN and his colleagues personally met all the activities who were on bicycles to greet and welcome the team.

The participants chanted the slogans in support of CBN - samples of slogan were: “Janmabhoomi kavali..meeru malli ravali”, “Visionary leader, CBN jindabad”. Roads in the vicinity of the venue were totally crowded with people who eagerly waited to greet CBN. CBN and the team first welcomed by the Temple priests. After worshipping the dieties in temple, CBN team went to the meeting venue, which was already jam packed waiting for him. The attendees welcomed CBN and the team by chanting slogans in support of his vision and leadership.

The program was kicked off by a dance(kids) composed for a song composed on "CBN, NTR achievements and NTR trust activities and accomplishments" and dance was directed by Srilu and Vijaya and then Mr. Sathish Ambati(MC of event) stated that CBN last visited Bay Areas was about 14 years ago, and it is our fortune to have him back here tonight with us. CBN in his main speech made a special mention of this dance indicting that he was very impressed with the talent, understanding and dedication of the kids to telugu culture and tradition. Mr. Satish Ambati welcomes CBN and the team on to the stage.

Mr. Ambati mentioned that “CBN is a leader with vision and great courage to make difference. CBN always thinks about people. CBN recognized the Information Technology as a future 14 years ago, and started many programs that helped hundreds of people in AP and India as well as in USA”. Mr. Ambati invited Sri. Nagam Janardhan Reddy said Nagam is great leader in opposition and always exposes Govt of AP failures and Sri. Erraballi Dayakar Rao, Sri. Garikapati Rammohan Rao, Sri E.Peddi Reddy, Sri. Dhulipala Narendra kumar, Sri. Lakkireddy Hanim Reddy, Sri. Satish Chilkuri, Sri. Jayaram Komati, Sri. Suresh Reddy Vuyyuru onto the stage.

Prior to starting the main the program, CBN and the team on the stage paid homage to historic telugu leaders Sri. Kandakuru Veereshalingam, Sri. Alluri Sitaramaraju, Sri. Potti Sree Ramulu and Sri. Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) by lighting the pushpanjali (candle lights). Mr. Ambati, CBN and all speakers on this occasion recognized the tremendous contribution made by each of these historic telugu leaders for preserving and promoting telugu language, Telugu culture and telugu people and formation of Andhra Pradesh state.

During CBN speech, he praised success of all telugu people in Bay Area as well as through out the world. CBN stated that his vision and goal is make telugu people be the best and first among many others in all areas throughout the world. CBN mentioned that the support that he has received today makes him and his team worked harder day and night to make his vision a reality. Through out his speech, CBN mentioned that he wanted to Partner with NRI’s through Social Services Wing (NRI TDP), promoted NTR Trust (Non Profit Organization), shared his experience as Opposition Leader, explained initiatives and Plans for Youth Involvement, and solicited NRI’s Advise in Setting Goals & Policies. CBN attributed the success of TDP to the founder Sri. NTR. He said NTR is not a single person; NTR is an institution to promote wellness of all telugu people. CBN requested all NRI’s to make contributions to the mother land (Andhra Pradesh and India) for helping to provide education, health, and jobs for all.

During this event, Dr. Lakkireddy Hanim Reddy, Sri. Nagam Janardhan Reddy, Sri. Satish Chilkuri, Sri. Jayaram Komati, Sri. Suresh Reddy Vuyyuru, and other spoke on the stage praised CBN’s vision and leadership.

During this event, when CBN explained the purpose of NTR trust and requested the support, the audience reciprocated by pledging their support, and over $140,000 (one hundred forty thousand) dollars were received. Sri. Jayaram Komati set the stage by contributing $25,000 followed by $25,100 by Lakkireddy Jayaprakash Reddy. The program went until the midnight and pledges were kept on coming from the audience through out the program. The entire program was filled with high energy. CBN and the team entertained Q&A session, which provided opportunity for many of the attendees to ask questions and hear the answer/feedback straight from CBN. CBN thanked the attendees and program organizers for having him here and supporting his vision and leadership.

Among many others, BATA executive committee felicitated CBN with a shaluva. Also, Shankara Eye Foundation felicitated CBN on the stage. At the end of the program, CBN patiently stood on the stage for personal pictures with many of the attendees and donors.

Though out CBN tour in the Bay Area for last three days, many of the local telugu community leaders organized meetings for CBN. Bay Area Organizing team consists of Suresh Reddy Vuyyuru, Satish Ambati, Yugandhar Reddy, Ramesh Mandalapu, Vijaya Aasuri, Srinivas Vallurupalli, Bhakta Balla, P. Ramakrishna, Ramesh Ragineni, Srikanth, Vikram, B Chandra, Alimineti Janga Reddy, Karun Veligeti and many others have actively participated in making arrangements for CBN meetings in the Bay Area.

Event food is sponsored by Peacock and Swagat Restaurants in Bay Area and Event Hall is sponsored by Sunnyvale Hindu Temple.

Dosa Place and Arvind Art Academy Welcomes CBN Album

CBN: 'Inspired by NRIs to launch Janmabhoomi'

Former chief minister and Telugu Desam president N Chandrababu Naidu has popularised his pet Janmabhoomi programme when he was in power for nine long years. Do you know who had inspired Babu to launch the programme. Babu himself says he was inspired by Telugu NRIs.

Let's read what Babu has to say in his message on the eve of his visit to the USA.

"Every time I go abroad, I meet a lot of Telugu people and get to know about their developments. Every single interaction gives me a sense of pride and happiness and proves that one need not only grow in their motherland but anywhere in the world.

"However, the longing towards the motherland is like a young child removed from the hands of a mother. It is this longing that keeps the connection with the motherland.

"This strong connection between the Telugus overseas and Andhra Pradesh and their initiatives for sustainable development activities in their places of origin inspired me to start the "Janmabhoomi Programme" during my Chief Ministership. This programme received an overwhelming response from the Telugu Diaspora to contribute for causes related to health and hygiene, education and community development in their native places. The giving patterns are further diversifying as more Telugus continue to make their mark in their countries of origin and settlement.

"In 1982, Shri.N.T.Rama Rao started the Telugu Desam Party to preserve and perpetuate the Telugu Pride and Identity. In this 25th year of the founding of the Telugu Desam Party, we are only carrying his dream beyond the borders of Andhra Pradesh and India.

"During one of my visits to the United States, I met this young and enthusiastic lady working for an MNC who amazed me with her innovative ideas towards starting various kinds of development projects in Andhra Pradesh that would benefit people below poverty line. In fact, I have witnessed some of her ideas being translated into reality in few villages.

"Another interesting incident was that of the visit of a small group of Telugus from Mauritius who met me during their pilgrimage to Andhra Pradesh. Their forefathers left our shores nearly 200 years ago. He also mentioned how over generations of their existence in a distant land they were able to maintain Telugu identity there by preserving our rich heritage. I was really moved when I learnt that in fact Telugu is a religion in Mauritius and it is a way of life.

"The economic and intellectual success of the Telugus has not only boosted the confidence of the entire Telugu community but also has had a ripple effect back in Andhra Pradesh. This has sparked a wave of entrepreneurship and is contributing significantly to the economy by way of charity, employment generation, intellectual capital and remittances.

"There is still further scope for bridging this gap and this is a major challenge for me as representative of the people, and for all of us Telugus residing in Andhra Pradesh who have benefited immensely from the success of Telugus beyond the borders of Andhra Pradesh.

"Due to the repeated requests of Telugus overseas and as one of the ideals of the Telugu Desam Party, we have created this platform, to begin with in the cyber space to connect all Telugus across the globe.

"I am happy to announce the launch of nritdp.org. To make this a successful endeavour, I request all the Telugus overseas to actively participate to preserve and perpetuate Telugu language, culture, customs and traditions. I also request the Telugu Diaspora to continue to share your economic and intellectual prosperity for the well-being, welfare and development of Andhra Pradesh making it a model state not only in India but also overseas, thereby making every Telugu feel proud about their homeland."

Why is Lokesh marriage a low-key affair?

It was rather disappointing for the Telugu Desam leaders and cadres with TD president N Chandrababu Naidu announcing that he wanted his son Lokesh's marriage with film hero Balakrishna's daughter Brahmani a low key affair. It would be a disappointing news even for the media, since they are banned not only for the engagement to be held on Sunday, but also for the marriage to take place shortly. Yet, some never-say-die mediapersons are trying their best to get the invite.

Sources say Naidu, in fact, wanted to make it a gala ceremony, but his wife Bhuvaneshwari desired that the ceremony should be confined only to the family, since she does not want Lokesh to be in the media limelight so early. It would send wrong signals to the people, as the media would definitely drag him into needless controversy. She wants that Naidu should first concentrate on returning to power and later, can think of giving Lokesh a political appearance.

At the same time, Balakrishna, too, requested Naidu to restrict the marriage only to the family members, because if the TD leaders and activists are invited, it would get the political colour. Except a few well-wishers from outside the family, including those in the film circles, the Lokesh-Brahmani marriage will only be a family function.

Fact Sheet: TD looks to NRIs for poll plan

Former chief minister and Telugu Desam president N. Chandrababu Naidu is seeking information on good governance and better political practices in foreign countries from Telugus living there. Mr Naidu will send email messages to about six lakh Telugu-speaking people living in 104 countries to brush up his knowledge on the methods adopted by governments and politicians in those countries to better the living standards of people. Based on the feedback, he will come out with an "action plan" before the next State Assembly elections.

To enable the Telugus to interact with him easily, the TD supremo on Saturday launched a special interactive website. However, the Telugu-speaking NRIs will have to shell down $10 to register with the website, www.nritdp.org to post their comments. "We have Andhras spread around the globe. They hold prime positions in many countries. We are asking information from them so that we can implement here some of the good practices adopted in those countries," Mr Naidu pointed out.

According to NTR Bhavan sources, Mr Naidu plans to project a "new image" to the Telugu Desam. He has also set up a "knowledge forum" for exchange of information between NRIs and Telugu Desam leaders on various subjects of public importance. The TD leader has projected himself on the NRI website as a farmer ploughing fields with two bullocks. This is quite in contrast with his earlier projection in the West as the chief executive officer of Andhra Pradesh.