American Telugu Association

Fro Immediate Press Release

 It is with great sadness Trustees and Members of American Telugu Association convey their condolence for the sudden demise of Dr. Y.S. Rajeshekar Reddy, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, our beloved Telugu mother land. ATA relationship with Dr. Reddy goes long way and many members of Dr. Reddy’s family are actively involved with activities of ATA. ATA community fondly remembers his visit to Chicago couple of years ago. In fact Dr. Reddy was part of one of the ATA conference celebrations. Many members of ATA leadership are good friends of Dr. Reddy and his family.

American Telugu Association and Telugu Community at large in USA are greatly saddened with this bad news and we all pray for the peaceful rest of his soul. May the Lord All mighty give all the strength to his family and our beloved state in this difficult times

New Jersey:  An ATA regional meeting was held on June 21, 2009 in New Jersey. It was called in by the Regional Coordinator Suresh Jilla. The meeting had an enthusiastic response and was attended by more than one hundred ATA members and well wishers despite rainy weather and it being Father’s Day. Amongst the attendees were ATA trustees, standing committee chairs, 10^th ATA Conference committee Chairs/co-chairs, members and regional coordinators from the Northeast region. There was also youth representation.

The meeting was moderated by Suresh Jilla and had the participation of many members including Rajender Jinna, ATA president elect. Various topics were raised and discussed including the future ATA activities in the region, including a Dassera function this upcoming October. We also spoke of conducting more frequent meetings to bring awareness to the local members regarding the ATA, creating incentives for an increase in ATA memberships, and discussing future ATA conference and youth conventions.

Most of  the attendees, both men and women participated enthusiastically in the discussion, and had suggestions and questions ranging from youth activities between conferences to a forum for ATA members to reach the board with concerns they have about the organization’s activities.  A focus on social issues of Telugu community in this country was also put forward along with guiding the students regarding the educational process in this country.

 The floor was open to attendees for participation followed by a question and answer session.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Vijay Kundur and the meeting was sponsored by Nandini and Srinivas Dargula at their residence.

We thank all the members who got involved with this meeting and look forward to further input from our members.

 Link to the event pictures:  http://picasaweb.google.com/atanjregion/ATANJ#

Dear ATA Family, 

Senior Citizens Program (Maitri) First Inaugural session Luncheon was organized in Dallas/Fort Worth on 3/15/2009 at Kokila Indian Restaurant.  This event was Co-hosted by ATA (American Telugu Association) partnering with Tantex (Telugu Association of North Texas ). Even though it was a Sunday, more than 110 people participated in this event mostly the visiting Parents from India as well as Senior Citizens from DFW Community.

The Purpose of this event is, with the Increase of Youth influx in DFW Telugu Population quite few parents are visiting their children in USA, and all of us go through the challenge of keeping our parents happy when they visit us here. Some of us succeed but many are fail to keep them occupied. It is obviously not possible to create an environment similar to the one they come from. Besides them there are several local Telugu citizens who worked for many years in the US and have retired. Most of them have a desire to meet other people and spend time with their age groups. For that reason, Local ATA Chapter and Local Telugu Associations came forward and Organized first Inaugural Senior Citizen Program. 

Nearly 10 ATA members and non-Members worked very hard to make arrangements for this event turned out to be Grand Success, started with devotional prayer by Aparna Vedula & Shayamala Rummalla, Welcome address by local Telugu Association President Sridhar Korsapati and DFW Metro ATA Regional Coordinator Satish Reddy. 

Past ATA Regional Coordinator RamaKrishna Rodda Reddy DFW ATA Senior Citizen Committee Member & Suresh Manduva local Telugu Association JT. Secretary gave the details about the upcoming monthly Senior citizen activities includes Group Discussions , Debates, Games (Chess, Caroms, etc), Singing, Sharing literary work, Cultural Activities, Interactive sessions by professionals on topics like Health, Yoga etc.

Survey was also conducted to find their interests, so that this can be used in the future Senior Programs, in addition to that some of the vis
iting parents and local senior Citizens shared their views as to how much it means to them to have this type of activities. 

The formal program was concluded with the vote of Thanks by Rao Kalavala.

This event was well Organized and coordinated by DFW ATA Senior Citizen Committee Members: Ramkrishna Rodda, Jagpal Naini, Ben Gupta, Satyan Kalyandurg, Rao Kalavala  as well as Local Telugu Association Leadership.

Some of the current and past Local ATA leaders are also attended this event including Krishna Bapatla, Srinvias Gurram , Ananth Pajjur and others…. 

Finally, Thanks to the Sponsors, without their support this event will not be possible.

 

DFW Metro ATA Team

Dear Telugu People,

We are all sorry to hear the tragic news of four Telugu students died in car accident. The accident happened at 1:45 a.m. Saturday in the west St. Louis County town of Des Perese. Off-duty suburban St. Louis police officer Chrissy L. Miller, who is an officer with the Sunset Hills Police Department, MO, was driving in the wrong lane when her 2001 Mitsubishi struck a 1999 Honda with five telugu students inside. Investigators believe that officer Chrissy L. Miller was drunk at the time of accident.

Everyone in the Honda except the driver was killed instantly. Three of the victims were from Charleston, Ill.: 23-year-old Anusha Anumolu, 23-year-old Anita Lakshmi and 22-year-old Prya Muppvarapu. The other, 25-year-old Satya Chinta, was from Aurora, Ill.

The Honda driver, 27-year-old Nitesh Adusumilli of Ballwin, Mo., was hospitalized at St. John's Mercy Medical Center in St. Louis County. Initially critical, his condition was upgraded later Saturday to fair.

There are no words to adequately express our sympathy for the devastation and profound loss to victims' families. Our Telugu community hasn’t experienced accident of this magnitude in the past.  Hence your help is required financially to send these bodies to India for their loved ones for last rituals.

It may take anywhere from $50,000 to $70,000. Our President Mudiganti Jithendar Reddy gaaru donating $1000. Please contribute whatever you can.

Please respond to this email and mail your contributions to the following address (Please note in memo section: Support Fund for St.Louis incident)

American Telugu Association (ATA)
P.O.Box  4496
Naperville, IL 60567

                      ATA Awards 2008 Ceremony

                                                        Chair: Sambi Reddy Avuthu

                                                         Co-Chair: Vidyasagar Annam

                     ATA takes great pride in recognizing and honoring Telugu people from all over world who have achieved significant successes in various fields including life achievement awards. These awards are very special and done every two years. We are proud to announce that we have many great achievers amongst us. This year we have about ten categories from which winners were selected. It was not an easy task as each one was better than the other. The Awards Committee members are experts in these fields and selections were made objectively, based on the information submitted to the committee.

                 Awards Committee selected the Awardees for “Excellence” using the grading system where all the members of the committee had their input. These awards except for the Life Time Achievement award, were limited to the Telugus living in U.S.A. Selection process for Meritorious Awards was done by Adhoc and Executive Committees. These awards were given to the people residing even outside U.S.A. Service Awards were given to the past convener, past executive committee members and other office bearers. Legendary Award and Life Achievement Awards were presented on the night of July 4th, 2008.

                        Dr. Sambi Reddy Avuthu and Dr. Vidyasagar Annam Conducted the ATA Awards 2008 Ceremony with power point presentation on July 3, 2008 at the Prudential Center, Newark, NJ  For the first time in the history of ATA, the awards function was conducted on the center stage with appropriate Indian classical and Telugu film music customized to the honoree’s liking.

Noteworthy is the fact that when Shri Vishwanath came on to the stage to give the awards the theme song from “ Shankarabharanam” was played. Shanthi Annam helped the Awards Committee in planning the presentation with music. Ramesh Ramanathan was the D.J. for the ceremony. Mahendra Korivi assisted him. Each awardee was welcomed on the  stage individually with a flower bouquet by Miss Shilpa Mamidi, the current Miss South Asia America and after receiving the award, the awardee was escorted off the stage by Sandeep Annam dressed in traditional Indian attire. Raja Avuthu and Sandeep Allam helped on the back stage.

Venue Committee was very co-operative and   made excellent arrangements. At the end of the program the Awards Committee thanked Venkatesh Mutyala (Chair, Venue Committee), Shanthi Annam, Shilpa Mamidi, Sandeep Annam, Mahendra Korivi and D.J. Ramesh Ramanathan.

             Legendary Award
 Padma Bhushan Dr. Pratap C. Reddy   

             Life Achievement Award

Padma Shri S.V. Rama Rao       ------   Visual Arts
Shri Bhadriraju Krishnamurti    ------     Linguistics

             Excellence Awards

Dr. Hanimi Reddy Lakireddy     ------- Community Service
Dr. Jagan Ailinani                       ------- Community Service
Mrs. Usha Munukutla                 -------  Performing Arts
Dr. S.S. Rama Rao Pappu           -------  Telugu Literature
Rama Krishna Reddy Sudireddy -------  Business & Entrepreneurship
Dr. D.H.R. Sarma                        ------- Engineering
Dr. Appajosyula Srinivas Rao ------ Engineering & Computer Technology
Dr. Pavan Reddy                      ------ Medicine
Dr. Siva Prasad Kumptla          ------  Science
Dr. Tata Prakasam                    ------ Science
Miss Rachana R. Mamidi         ------ Youth

                          Meritorious Awards

Dr. Meenakshi Chintapalli      ------ Medicine and Community Service
Dr. Sanku S. Rao                       ------- Leadership and Medicine
Shri Goteti Rama Rao                ------- Journalism and Literature
Pandit Sri Janardan Mitta           ------- Performing Arts -Sitar
Ramesh Babu Rayapu                 ------- Social Service and Medicine
Mr. K.R. Surender Reddy           ------- Leadership
Mrs. Vandita Rao Yerraballi --------- Community Service
Shri G. Anand                      ---------    Performing Arts- Music
Dr. Appajosyula Satyanarayana ---- Computer Science
Yarlagadda Prasad Rao              ----- Business and Community Service        

                           Award Presenters

Kalatapasvi Shri K. Vishwanath, Film Director
Shri Upendra Chivukula, State Legislator, NJ
Shri Gollapudi Maruthi Rao, Actor and Literary Giant
Dr.K.I. Varaprasad Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of
                                     Shantha Biotechnics Ltd.              

           Awards Committee

Chair :       Sambi Reddy Avuthu
Co-Chair : Vidyasagar Annam (Founding Member, Co-Convener for Fourth  World Telugu Conference by ATA, NY 1992) 

 
          Members:

Sarada Poorna Sonty
Lakshman Rao J.V.
Hanmanth Reddy ( Founding Member, Past President)
Chandra Reddy Gavva ( President ATA)
Vijaypal Reddy (National Coordinator)
Parushuram Reddy (Trustee Advisor)        

ATA President message to - ATA members and 10th ATA Conference Attendees.

Dear ATA members and 10th ATA Conference attendees:

It was great to see you all at our mega event - 10th ATA Conference & Youth Convention! We had close to 12,000 Telugu people from all over USA and India at the Prudential Center and it was truly a festive atmosphere studded with Telugu spirit and culture. An event of this magnitude can not be organized in a short span. Hundreds of volunteers and convention committees worked with ATA leadership for the last 12 months to host this big "Telugu family" event! They have sacrificed their personal and family time to make this happen. We are thankful to all of you who appreciated the programs and shared your happy moments with us. While we had several things to be happy about, we also had some inconveniences during the course of the event due to unavoidable circumstances at the venue and we sincerely apologize for these unanticipated inconveniences. As we have said many times and as you all know - this is truly a Family event - we all came together as one BIG TELUGU FAMILY to host our own event and we hope that you find it in your big hearts to forgive us for the inconvenience.

Once again we apologize for the unanticipated inconveniences at the conference and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for coming in large numbers and making this a record ATA convention!
Looking forward to see you all at 11th ATA Conference & Youth Convention at Houston in 2010.  

Sincerely,
Dr. Chandra Reddy Gavva
ATA President

           ATA Awareness and Fundraising Dinner at PA

Dr Haranath Policherla- Awardee of The 54th National Film Awards

                ATA Roju in Indianapolis 

April 25^th, 2008, was a special day for Telugu people of Indiana and for American Telugu Association (ATA). More than 150 Telugu people gathered at India Community Center in Indianapolis to lend their heartfelt support to upcoming mega event of the year – 10^th ATA Conference and Youth Convention. The venue, nicely clad in traditional attire, invited the participants to the ambience of welcome music and slideshow of ATA Roju and ATA Vedukalu.

The program started with a prayer of Lord Ganesha melodiously rendered by Dr. Sujata Pammi. ATA regional coordinator for Indiana, Mr. Shekhar Krishnamaneni, appreciated the participants in his welcome address and provided introduction to ATA and the importance of the upcoming ATA convention in preserving and promoting Telugu culture. Mr. Raju Chinthala, Joint Secretary, then took the center stage and served as the MC and facilitator of the event. He applauded the work and contributions of Indiana ATA team and the progress made under President Dr. Chandra Reddy Gavva and his leadership team. Mr. Dileep Vadlamudi, President of Greater Indianapolis Telugu Association, spoke on the occasion and expressed his pleasure in witnessing the impressive progress ATA made over the years and the services it is extending to Telugu community in USA and India.

Then came the exciting cultural program judiciously interwoven with fundraiser activities. The very first item, “Pravaasana Teluguvaari Aata (ATA) Paatalu” directed by Dr. Sujata Pammi and Mrs. Sarada Kocherlakota, an item to be presented at ATA convention in July, was staged for the pleasure of the audience. This medley of patriotic and contemporary dance numbers by nine Telugu children is a runaway hit with the audience. Dr. Vijayapal Reddy, National Coordinator of ATA, then gave an uplifting speech and emphatically shared that ATA’s continued success is because of dedicated people. He stressed on the importance of the upcoming convention and the grandiose, never-before scale with which it is going to be held in Newark, New Jersey. He was ecstatic in announcing that cultural programs enough for 22+ hours were enthusiastically submitted while the available timeslot is only 10 hrs. He also emphasized the impressive stash of activities being planned by our youth and listed some of the invitees that included political leaders, Tollywood stars and spiritual leaders. Dr. DHR Sarma, well known poet and Telugu scholar of Indiana, then shared his appreciation for ATA’s activities and extended his best wishes to the convention in the form of a beautiful poem written for the occasion that started with “ee ATA veduka vijayamai, aikyabhavana baavutai…”

Dr. Chandra Reddy Gavva, President of ATA, then addressed the audience by explaining about his journey with ATA, village development activities undertaken by ATA in Andhra Pradesh, the mega scale of 10^th ATA conference and the rationale behind choosing the theme and slogan of 10^th ATA conference. He also won the full marks of the audience by sharing a Telugu kavitha – that highlighted the Telugu life on this Western soil and what we could and should do to preserve our Telugu heritage. With this backdrop, he extended a strong and sincere invitation to the audience and urged them to attend the convention. ATA treasurer Mrs. Bharathi Pulluru, Youth committee co-chair Dr. Manasa Reddy, Awards Committee Chair Dr. Sambi Reddy gave updates on their respective areas. Fast beat traditional, contemporary and hybrid medley dance numbers presented by Anunitha Nattam, Sai Ambaty, Saiuth Malpeddi, Karthik Reddy, Sandeep Pamireddy and Nikitha Lattupally received superb response from the audience throughout the performances. The stand-up comedy by Raja Reddy Avutu was a mega hit. Raja successfully tickled the funny bones of the audience by dexterously combining mimicry and humor with commendable histrionics in portraying comedy situations in daily life.

Interlaced with this extraordinary talent presentation of Telugu youth was the fundraiser activity the success of which was nothing short of the fine manifestation of the love of Telugu people for their culture and the value and respect they have for everything that is “Telugu”. Throughout the program donations kept pouring in and Mr. Ramu Chinthala and Mr. Sandeep Pamireddy kept the scoreboard. A surprise item featured along the way when ATA membership committee chair, Dr. Jayaprada Konijeti, brought in a huge “Laddu” equivalent to 110 regular size laddus for an auction. It fetched $645 for the fundraiser. Excitement and applause echoed the walls of the venue when it was announced that the goal of 100 thousand dollars was achieved – in exactly 100 minutes of fundraiser-cum-entertainment program!! Well, Telugus of Indiana have demonstrated that they can churn out $1,000 per minute for the love of their Motherland and for the ATA organization that is striving to uphold the “Telugu’ spirit and vision!!!

Thanks to volunteers Ramu Chinthala, Sandeep Pamireddy, Luvakar Reddy, and TCS Employees.

 ATA Fundraising is Successful in North California.

ATA (American Telugu Association)'s awareness and fundraiser meetings have ended very successfully in North California with rising more than 100,000 dollars.
 
The first fund raising dinner was held at Friday night meeting held at Mss. Jhancy Rajender reddy house in Hanford,CA where ATA president Dr.Chnadra reddy gavva, Sudhakar reddy and North California ATA coordinator Buchanna Gajula were present. Dr.chandra reddy  wished everyone a happy Ugadhi and explained the big plans about the ATA conference  and requested all Telugus across America to come forward and participate in celebrations.
  
The 2nd dinner  event was held at Sri Rami and Smt Indira Rami Reddy's house in San Jose CA on 5th April 2008, where all noted Bay Area industrialist/Entrepreneurs were present. 
 
Dr Gavva and Rami Reddy have explained to the Prawasi's about the importance of being part in culture and pass it on to the next generations and welcomed everybody to come to NewJersey to participate in the celebrations.

Dr.Hanimi Reddy , a noted philanthropist  from Mercid explained to the people about his satisfaction in life through his philanthropic activities.
 
Dr.Mohan Mallam past president of ATA explained importance of ATA conference and requested to join the hands to strengthen the organisation.   
 
Tremendous response came from the people for fundraising, and were able to raise more than 100,000 dollars, the prominent are Lakkireddy Hanmi reddy, Ram Reddy, Jhancy Rajender reddy, Prahlad (Om insurance), Vijaya Chavva an NRI from Paalamoor,N Dhamodhar Reddy , Madhu Kirs ,Jayaram komati, Praveen,Dr.Gopi reddy , Suresh Reddy Vuyyuru,  Srinivas Manapragada etc .

Buchanna Gajula thanked the dinner party hosts and participants for making it huge success.

ATA Board meeting, Fundraising Events- New York, New Jersey:

ATA committee and members held a successful fundraising events in New York and New Jersey to raise funds for the  10th ATA Conference and Youth Convention conducted by American Telugu Association (ATA) on July 3rd, 4th and 5th 2008 in Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey. 

The events were a huge success with a large turnout of Telugu community from all over New York, New Jersey and near by states. Attendees showed lot of enthusiasm and interest for the ATA conference and the elaborate arrangements and activities showed a small glimpse of festivities at the main event to be held in Prudential Center, New Jersey.

Both the events were attended by prominent members and ATA leaders. ATA President Dr. Chandra Reddy Gavva, president elect Jithender Reddy, conference convener Balaram Pammi, National Coordinator Vijaypal Reddy, board member and big supporter of ATA Pailla Malla Reddy attended this function along with most of the board of trustees, standing committee and conference committee members. Several ATA trustees, past presidents and other ATA members traveled from different corners of the country to attend these events.

* New York- Fundraising Event(March.7.2008):New York event was on March 7th in Marriott Hotel, Long Island and it was organized by  ATA NY regional coordinator Chinnababu Reddy with advise and support from Pailla Malla Reddy.  Balaram Pammi, Stanley Reddy, Pradeep Samala, Srinivas Reddy and several local ATA members helped in organizing this event. 

* ATA Board meeting- New York(March.8.2008): ATA Board meeting on March 8 to discuss preparations for the ATA conference. Board of Trustees from all over the country arrived in New York for this event. ATA standing committee and board of trustees discussed overall ATA activities followed by meeting of chairs and co-chairs of all conference committees. All the teams showed lot of enthusiasm and preparedness for the 10th ATA Conference and Youth Convention. 

* New Jersey- Fundraising Event(March.8.2008):New Jersey event was on March 8th in Royal Alberts Palace in Fords, New Jersey and it was organized by ATA NJ regional coordinator Mahender Musuku and conference coordinator Arjun Dyapa. Several prominent ATA leaders constantly worked for more than 4 weeks to make this event a big success and present as a showcase for the main conference. Fundraising event was conducted uniquely with a grand welcome to the attendees and nonstop entertainment by children from local dance schools, local artists with songs and skits. Many children specially prepared for performances during this event and mesmerized the audience with their talent and dedication.

Amar Reddy, Balwant Kommidi, Damodar Donur, Indrasen Reddy, Krishna Dyapa, Mohan Patalolla,Mohan Talamati, Paramesh Bheemreddy, Narayana Pirlamarla, Murali Chintalapani, Raj Seelam, Rajeshwar Reddy, Ram Reddy, Ramsurya Reddy, Ravi Patlola, Premendhar Nandyala, Sudhakar Perkari,  Vinod Koduru, Suresh Reddy, Suresh Pannala, Ramesh Chandra, Laxma Reddy, Venkatrajam Chiluka, Damu Gedala and many others worked hard to make this event a big success.

Combined fundraising events in New York and New Jersey raised total funds of $600,000.00, which included generous contributions from Pailla Malla Reddy and other prominent members and supporters of Telugu community. 

Upendra Chivukula, Deputy Speaker of New Jersey General Assembly,Notable Attorney- Prasanthi Reddy and other local leaders, who attended the function, congratulated ATA team on the preparations and pledged full support for the ATA conference.

ATA Roju, Fundraising in Los Angeles,California.

American Telugu Association(ATA), a leading association of non-resident Indians in the US, celebrated ATA ROJU in Los Angeles on Saturday,23.February.2008 to raise funds and membership for ATA and also an announcement for the upcoming 10th ATA conference & Youth Convention that is being held on July 3rd, 4rd & 5th 2008 at Prudential Center, Newark,New Jersey. Several Prominent members in Los Angeles & American Telugu Association leaders attended this function. Philanthropist Dr. Prem Sagar Reddy , ATA Former President Dr.Mohan Mallam, ATA 2006 conference convener Dr. Dharma Reddy, ATA president-elect Jithender Reddy, Dr.Sanjeev Reddy, International Coordinator Raising Telugu Star Dr. Haranath Policherla of ATA  attended this function along with several other board of trustees, standing committee and conference committee members.
 
The event was a huge success with a large turn around of telugu  community from all over the region. The event was well organized by ATA West coast wing, currently being headed by Mr.Nataraj Madireddy (local coordinator for California, Arizona & Hawaii region). The program raised a total funds of about $127k, which included generous contributions from Dr. Prem Sagar Reddy and other promiment members. Not only was this event financially successful but also emphasized the importance of ATA raising and distributing funds for various charitable activities and providing financial aid to the victims of natural and other emergencies. The event was held to create awareness of ATA's objectives & goals and also an overall effort to create awareness of the membership privileges and benefits.

During the event, various cultural programs were performed by children from local dance schools.The programs also included  very entertaining and hilariously dealt Mimicry, classical dances, folk dances & film songs.  The program was enjoyed to the fullest by audience right from the start to the end.
 
Mr. Nataraj Madireddy,during his speech welcomed the gathering and thanked all the members for their generous support and contributions to ATA. He requested every one to be part of ATA family by taking Membership. Mr. Nataraj Madireddy thanked ATA team Buchi Reddy,Lakshman Koka,Vikram Varma,Suneel Ralangi,Sujit Vadi,Ravi Kumar Boddu, Venkat Eerammala,Narasimha Reddy,YSR,KVN,Ramesh Gattu,Gautham Reddy,Vikram Bojjam,Vijaypal Kesireddy,Kiran Juvadi, Harsha Atmakur, Nandu,Pradeep Varma,Amar, Suri, Ranga Thakkalapally, Shiva, Hemanth kothanda, Satish, Usha Gorti, Kishore Mamillapalli, Shivaram, Veerababu, Dr. Sindhuri, Silpa mamidi, Rachana mamidi, and all others who were instrumental  in making this event a great success.

ATA President Dr. Chandra Reddy Gavva's interview

Click here to watch VIDEO

ATA cricket tournament 2008 Los Angeles - Grand Final

ATA cricket Tournament 2008- Los Angeles

As part of ATA Roju(ATA day) sports activities, ATA conducted the first round of 'ATA Cricket Tournament 2008' in Los Angeles,CA (Venue: North Hollywood Park) on Saturday 2nd February 2008. The day turned out to exciting, fun-filled and ambitious event which reflected the vibrant energy of the southern CA region. A huge gathering have come to witness these matches and enjoyed them until the end of the day. The tournament was a well planned and organized event. Special Thanks to the entire organizing committee and to all participating teams in this tournament. Also thanks to Annapurna Cuisine for providing refreshments and lunch during the tournament.

The remaining matches for the Quarter Finals, Semi-Finals and Finals will be played on Saturday 9th February 2008, so please join us & be part of an entertaining and exciting finish on that day. Trophies and Certificates to the teams will be presented on ATA roju (ATA day), which is scheduled to be held on Saturday 23rd February 2008 in Los Angeles CA.

ATA Convention 2008- Official Website Launched.

Click Here to visit the site.

ATA Vedukalu- Hyderabad: Dec.30.2007

ATA Vedukalu- Hyderabad:I
ATA Vedukalu- Hyderabad:II
Hyderabad-Photo Album-I
Hyderabad-Photo Album- II

Surya Pet: Dec.26, 27.2007

Surya Pet- Dec.26.2007
Surya Pet- Dec.27.2007-I
Surya Pet- Dec.27.2007-II

Nellore: Dec.22,23.2007

Nellore- Dec.22.2007
Nellore- Dec.23.2007- I
Nellore- Dec.23.2007-II
Nellore- Kethapally

ATA Vedukalu held in Hotel Taj Krishna on Dec.30.2007.  

ATA vedukalu were flagged off byAndhra Pradesh Chief Minister- Dr.YS Rajasekhar Reddy,Home Minster- Jana Reddy,IT Minister- R. Damodar Reddy and Minister of Tourism and Information- Anam Rama Narayan Reddy. Notable Telugu Poet- C Narayana Reddy attended the function as the guest.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. YSR appreciated the efforts of ATA for keeping the Telugu culture alive in USA. He urged the ATA members to join hands with the government in adapting villages and developing them.

The ATA committee gave away life achievement awards to prominent personality from various walks of lives including Krishnam Raju, Chatla Sriramulu, Ravu Bala Saraswati Devi etc.

The Andhra Pradesh Governor- Sri Narayan Dutt Tiwari lauds ATA(American Telugu Association) efforts.

Mega Health Camp: Andhra Pradesh Governor- Sri Narayan Dutt Tiwari inaugurated the mega health camp attended by about 60 Medical Experts.

Mega Blood Camp:  The Union Urban Development Minister S.Jaipal Reddy inaugurated the Mega Blood Camp to mark the occasion.

Public meeting: “Make use of the latest technology available with you and bring it here,” Governor said while addressing a public meeting organised as part of the two-day festival of the American Telugu Association (ATA) at Pillala Marri, Surya Pet, Nalgonda District on Dec.27.2007.

The Governor Narayan Dutt Tiwari has called upon Non-Resident Indians to “bring the latest technology here” for the benefit of our people.

ATA- Nav Nirman: The Governor Congratulating the NRI’s for ensuring the “Nav Nirman” of the host countries, Mr. Tiwari said, “You’ve indeed set an example. The NRIs play a very significant role across the world. I am privileged to greet you.”

The Governor further observed that the NRIs had the “pious responsibility” of serving their motherland.

Cancer Hospital: The Governor complimented the ATA for constructing a cancer hospital between Pillalamarri and Suryapet.

The ATA president Gavva Chandra Reddy, the Union Minister S. Jaipal Reddy, the State Ministers—K. Jana Reddy and R. Damodar Reddy, ZP chairperson K. Narayana Reddy, the Nalgonda MP S. Sudhakar Reddy, the DCC president S. Mallesh Goud, the TD president B. Lingaiah Yadav and some NRIs also spoke.

The Cultural Shows: The cultural shows of tribals and other troupes enthralled the audience.

The American Telugu Association(ATA) president said that it was designed to provide an avenue to those NRIs, who wanted to contribute to the welfare of the villages of their choice. The ATA would also strive to get matching funds from the local administration to make the programme more effective and foolproof, he said.

'Adopt-a-Village’ concept: NRIs to adopt a village each in 3 regions of State. ‘The concept provides avenue to serve rural areas of choice’.

The American Telugu Association (ATA), Collaborating with local community leaders and government officials make the best use of ‘Adopt-a-Village’ concept in all three regions of the State to address community needs such as clean water, public health, education and other basic necessities.

With several Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) coming forward to work for the development of their motherland particularly in their hometowns, the ATA has taken up the initiative to serve the disadvantaged and disfranchised people of Andhra Pradesh through ‘Adopt-a-Village’ concept.

“some of the members have started adopting villages in the State. For instance, Dr. Premsagar Reddy has already adopted one village in Nellore district while I have chosen my native place-Pillalamarri in Nalgonda district-to take up several developmental activities under the noble concept,” ATA president Chandra Reddy Gavva, who was here along with several NRIs to take part in the two-day ATA convention, said on Sunday.

 
ATA Cultural fest: Artistes showcase their talent at the two-day American Telugu Association (ATA) convention in Nellore on Sunday, Dec.23.2007.

"The aim of the event is, to have a continued presence, connectivity and communication between people of the State and the US; to keep Telugu culture and heritage intact" &

"The 10th ATA convention-2008 will be held in Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey from July 3 to 5, 2008. The ATA has initiated plans to invite Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy and President of USA George W Bush for the three-day convention" according to senior ATA functionary and Megasoft Chairman- Ravindra Sannareddy.

ATA ROJU Photos

ATA Roju- New Jersey- Sunday, Dec.9.2007 

ATA Roju celebrated in New Jersey on Sunday was a grand success with an attendance of about 2,000 people. It was celebrated as a showcase and momentum builder to the ATA conference to be held in July.3,4,5.2008.

The auditorium was fully packed with Telugu loving people from New York, New Jersey and near by states. Several American Telugu Association leaders attended the function.

 ATA President- Chandra Reddy Gavva, conference convener Balaram Pammi, National Coordinator Vijaypaul Reddy, Internation Coordinator Haranath Policherla, board member and big supporter of ATA Pailla Malla Reddy attended this function along with several other board of trustees, standing committee and conference committee members.

Conference local coordinator- Arjun Dyapa, New Jersey Regional coordinator- Mahender Musuku, Trustees -Rajeshwar Reddy and Ramasurya Reddy along with several local ATA members have worked very hard to make this function successful.

Event is scheduled in 2 segments.

* First segment:  Classical and movie song dances by children from different popular dance schools.

Children from local dance schools performed various types of dances including classical and songs from Telugu movies. It was a pleasure to see children from all ages starting with 5 years happily dancing to the popular tunes.

* Second segment: Cultural and musical extravaganza by movie Actors, Singers and Comedians.

The audience was entertained by Cine Artists- Sivaji Raja, Ankitha, Singers- Raghu Kunche, Sunitha.

* Dance Performance: Telugu film heroine, Ankitha, danced to several Telugu numbers along with local children.Sivaji Raja entertained with comedy bits.

* Musical Performance:Raghu Kunche and Sunitha sang to live music from popular Telugu movies.

* Announcement of  ATA President:

ATA Convention- 2008: Newark, New Jersey

ATA conference committee along with the chairs, co-chairs of different committees who were present at the ATA ROJU venue had a kick-off meeting to discuss the plan for upcoming conference in July. Everybody was very excited and ready to roll up their sleeves to make the next conference another grand success.

- Ravi Gavva

ATA Convention- 2008: Newark, New Jersey 

Venue: Prudential Center(Home of the New Jersey Devils)

Edison Pl. & Mulberry St.
Newark, NJ 07102

The ATA  President- Dr. Gavva Chandra Reddy announced that ATA conference will be held on July 3,4 and 5, 2008 in newly built Prudential Center in New Jersey.

Due to the expected high attendance, for the convenience of the attendees and on popular demand of Telugu people in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware and Pennsylvania area, the conference has been moved from New York to New Jersey.

Prudential Center: Newark, New Jersey.

Newly built "Prudential center" is conveniently located in downtown Newark and is easily commutable by several public transportation methods.

ATA ROJU in Detroit- 12/7/2007

The Detroit chapter of American Telugu Association (ATA) had successfully hosted ATA Roju, a membership drive event on Dec 7th with fun filled events. 

It was an open invitation for everyone in the community to attend the event to learn about ATA's objectives and ways to get involved in the organization. The event was part of an overall effort by ATA to create awareness of the membership privileges and benefits. 

As part of the event, Chandrahas - Telugu Movie was run on regular intervals to keep the guests that included women and kids - entertained. The star attraction of the evening for the event was the presence of Sri Haranath Policherla –Actor & Producer of " Chandarahas- movie" who is also the International Coordinator of ATA.

 900 People Attended this event.  This was a historic event for the local chapter of Detroit which was organized by Ram Reddy- Detroit Regional Coordinator for ATA. Near to 100 new membership applications were filled up on this day..

 Dr.Chandra Reddy Gavva -President of ATA said that "the achievement marks the best year of growth in the organizations’ membership drive". He also states  that this is just a beginning of our long journey to our membership drive and there is long way to go and we still invite more members across North America to share our goals.

Other Prominent guests who were present for the occasion are ATA National Coordinator- Vijaypal Reddy, ATA Joint Secretary- Raju Chintala, Shekhar Krishnamaneni- Regional Coordinator for Indianapolis , Mr. Surya Bezwada president of Telugu Association of Greater Toronto.

Viswa Mandalapu, CEO of Vision Systems group became a grand patron of ATA donating 5000$.

Event was organized by Ram Reddy, Sunil Marri, Raju Brahmandhabheri, Ashok Perumandla, Laxma Reddy, Murali . Surya , Raj , Venkatesh.

The American Telugu Association is pleased to announce that the Board of Trustees under the present leadership of Chandra Reddy Gavva, President, had their third Board Meeting at Marriot Hotel, Long Island, New York on September 22, 2007 and approximately 150 people attended this historic meeting. It is ATA’s tradition to have a fund raising event kick off at the board meeting and ATA set a new fiscal record by raising over $500,000 in nearly 15 minutes. That money, along with other generous contributions, will go towards funding the 10th ATA Conference and Youth Convention at New York and charitable work in Andhra Pradesh, India and USA. With ATA 2008 theme of “Telugu Thalliki Haaram, Dasamavatharam, Yuvatharaniki Dwaram” (Salutation to Mother Telugu, with ATA 10th appearance and giving way to the next generation), the next year’s event is shaping up to be the best convention thus far and committee members and convention core team along with ATA leaders and members are working with feverish intensity and ideas are materializing into concrete plans.

A follow up kick off meeting of 10th ATA Conference and Youth Convention team was held in the Hindu Temple, Flushing, New York on the auspicious day of Vijaya Dasami on Sunday the 21st October 2007. The convention core team consisting of Mr. Balaram Pammi (Convenor), Vijayapal Reddy (National Coordinator), Stanley Reddy (Co-Convenor), Arjun Dyapa (Coordinator), Rajender Jinna (Executive Director), Pradeep Samala (Conference Secretary), ATA tri-state regional coordinators, conference committee chairs, trustees, regional Telugu association leadership and all conference co-chairs and members were present. ATA leadership in attendance have pledged their support on conducting and carrying out 3 day mega event to take place at Nassau Coliseum, Long Island, New York from July 3rd-5th, 2008. We hope that everyone will help our cause and in a short amount of time, coupled with determination and faith, the fruits of our labors will culminate in July with an extravagant gala featuring dances, actors, spiritual and political leaders and a host a variety and innovative programs that is guaranteed to excite, entertain, inform and unite. The ATA team has initiated plans to invite the honorable Chief Minster of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Y.S.R. Garu, and the honorable President of USA, Mr. George W. Bush. The ultimate goal of our organization is to hand over the Telugu Samskrithi and Sampradayam to the next generation. While keeping intact our traditions and being Telugu at heart, we live by and proudly represent the ideals and values of the United States of America. ATA also encourages to visit our well developed and user friendly website www.ataworld.org for further details and up to date information.

We have recognized the need for more leadership in various geographical areas. The need for involvement of more people to bring greater awareness of ATA around the nation is essential for keeping our Telugu heritage and the process of handing over our organization to the next generation.

Thus, we have selected 27 regional coordinators from 10 different geographical areas around the nation. One or more regional coordinators will be partnered with one or more trustees to achieve our goals.  

We also identified over-seas regions for the same purpose and are in the process of identifying and selecting the rest of the over-sea coordinators for India, Canada (North America), Dubai (Mid-East), London (Europe), Singapore (South East Asia), and Australia.

ATA Executive committee, Fundraising Committee, ATA Roju Committee, ATA Vedukalu Committee ( for over seas), and your local ATA Leaders will be at your service for any advice or help that may be needed. Of course, I as the president of ATA will be available at all times for any assistance.

Please find the link for list of regions, regional coordinators, and trustees as mentioned below.

Regional Coordinators

HYDERABAD: The American Telugu Association (ATA) and the Telugu Association of North America (TANA) will adopt one village from each of the three regions in the State for taking up development projects. This was stated at a press conference here on Tuesday by Gavva Chandra Reddy, ATA president. "We are in the process of identifying the villages. We want to repay our gratitude to the motherland on behalf of about three lakh Telugus in US," Dr. Reddy, an oncologist from Indiana, said. He said ATA spent nearly US $ 2 million every year on various programmes for the benefit of Telugus. Dr. Reddy, a former student of Osmania University, said that recently an NRI had donated Rs.1 crore for a women's hostel in Warangal district. ATA and TANA would jointly felicitate Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy on May 6 at Chicago.

Courtesy: Hindu

We regret to inform you that Sudhir Rudraraju, a young Mechanical Engineer got killed in Mill Burn city suburbs of Atlanta in Georgia State .   Sudhir hails from Gudimula village in East Godavari dist. After completing B. Tech in Bangalore , he completed MS in 2001-2003.  He joined Toyota Automotive Group in 2004 as a Mechanical Engineer.   Sudhir's cause of death is still unknown is under investigation.  As per reliable sources, he might have been shot to death in his home on Sunday, Feb 1st, 2009 (Super Bowl game night).  Sudhir's friends called him on his cell phone to know whether Sudhir can join them Monday evening to play Racquet Ball.  They tried three different times including monday night 10:00 PM and there was no answer. Tuesday morning, his friends called his work place Toyota Automotive Group to see whether he was there and came to know that he didn't show up to work either Monday or Tuesday.  Then his friends went to Sudhir's home and to their surprise they found his car outside his home and they called police.  When Police opened the door, they found Sudhir in a pool of blood.  Police are investigating the case and waiting for Medical Examiner's autopsy report. The whole Atlanta community is in shock to know about the incident.

Let us all help Sudhir's Family .. Dear ATA member: Our fellow Telegu person, Mr. Rudraraju Sudhir Kumar was brutally killed in Atlanta .  American Telugu Association (ATA) and American Telugu Community is making every effort to send the body of Mr. Sudhir Kumar to India .  We are requesting all ATA members and friends to help this task and lend your support to Mr. Sudhir’s family at this difficult time.  Please send your contributions to (Please note in memo section: Support Fund for Sudhir): American Telugu Association (ATA) P.O.Box  4496 Naperville, IL 60567   Thanking you, American Telugu Association