Focus on Telugu Literature at World Conference

HYDERABAD: The 4th World Telugu Conference to be held from December 8 at Phoenix in Mauritius will hold extensive discussions on Telugu literature and culture. Papers will be presented on classical and modern literature, non-resident Telugus' contribution to literature, methods to teach Telugu, culture of Telugu diaspora in Mauritius, innovations in Kuchipudi and Carnatic music, painting techniques of Andhra Pradesh among others. The special feature of the conference is that it will not be just another confluence of glitterati but will be attended by litterateurs who have had adequate acquaintance with Telugu literature and culture, said Dr C Mrunalini, director of comparative studies at the Telugu University. Speaking to Express, Dr D Munirathnam Naidu, director of Mandali Vental Krishnarao International Telugu Centre said a large number of teachers at the Mauritian University's Mahatma Gandhi Institute have been trained at the Potti Sreeramulu University. During the conference training and demonstrations on how to teach Telugu will be given to teachers abroad.About 400 delegates from all over the globe are expected to attend the three-day conference jointly organised by the Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University (Mandali Vental Krishnarao International Telugu Centre) and the Mauritius Telugu Cultural Trust. The last conference the varsity organised in Mauritius was in 1990. Delegates from Kuwait, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, South Africa, US, UK and Malaysia will be present.There are about one lakh Telugu-speaking people in Mauritius. Professors at the Telugu varsity say the Telugu population in Mauritius are keen on preserving and promoting Telugu culture and have started an Andhra Mahasabha. The government of Mauritius has also been very supportive by promoting Telugu medium schools. "Telugu is being taught till graduate level and soon the language will be introduced at PG level as well," according to professors. Deputy chief minister C Damodar Rajanarasimha, minister for tourism and culture Vatti Vasanth Kumar, minister Sailajanath, Dr A Chakrapani, chairman of legislative council, will accompany the Potti Sreeramulu team to Mauritius.