MATA Florida Chapter displays unity at 76th Indian Republic Day event in Tampa

Tampa, Florida: The Mana American Telugu Association (MATA) Florida Chapter proudly celebrated the 76th Indian Republic Day with a grand event that brought together communities and cultures in a dazzling display of unity and pride.

Led by Tony Jannu, Joint Secretary, along with Regional Vice Presidents Sam Kashimalla, HariKrishana Narukullapati, JB Auvula, Cultural Chairs Sridhar Tolupunoori and Shiva Paka, Community Chair Mansoor Shaik, Media Chair Sravan Madhamsetty, and Standing Committee members Niagara Nalla, Shareen Ashwaq, Sreekanth Alla, Chandra Jhade, Girish Rachakonda, Venkat Gunupati, and Swathi Bommidi, this celebration set a record with 889 RSVPs and a remarkable turnout.

The event was graced by Colonel Anthony Collins from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, who honored the occasion as the Guest of Honor. Colonel Collins raised the U.S. flag and delivered an inspiring message on unity, appreciating the warmth of Indian hospitality and the richness of Indian culture.

The Indian flag was proudly hoisted by MATA’s Founder and President, Mr. Srinivas Ganagoni, who was also honored as the Person of the Year 2024. In his keynote address, Mr. Ganagoni highlighted MATA’s impactful initiatives across its 23 chapters in the USA, including the Free Health Clinics providing complimentary medication through Butterfly Pharmacy in New Jersey and Atlanta, Georgia.

Tony Jannu welcomed the gathering, reflecting on the history of Republic Day and how the Indian Constitution, crafted under Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s visionary leadership, dismantled the barriers of inequality. He emphasized the importance of understanding and owning a copy of the Constitution, which stands as the backbone of India’s democratic values.

The cultural program was a kaleidoscope of performances

• Group Dance (Lagaan Medley) by RK Group
• Solo Dance by Esha Rachakonda
• Group Dance by RK BEERALA Group
• The Significance of Republic Day by Aarya Narukullapati
• Solo Song by Samanyu Polupangu
• Greetings from Dr. Sridevi
• Group Dance by Little Stars from Rhythm Dance Studio
• Solo Song by Srimanyu Shanmukha
• Group Dance by RK Group
• Solo Dance by Saanvi Jalugam
• Rap Performance: Jana Gana Mana Rap by Suchir, Prish, and Suronsher
• Solo Song by Chethan Reddy Menthem
• Group Dance: Kundanapu Bommalu
• Solo Songs by Naishitha and Deepthi Gunupati
• Fancy Dress by Vihan Polupangu and Dyuthi Reddolu
• Group Dance (Dancing Dazzles) by Rhythm Dance Studio
• Solo Dance by Deethya Reddolu
• Group Dance (Buttabommalu) by Rhythm Dance Studio
• Solo Dance by Tanishka Chinthaman

This joyous occasion was made possible with support from numerous organizations, including NATS, Telugu Association of Florida, Telangana Association of Florida, Tampa Indian Christian Association, American Hyderabadi Association of Tampa Bay, Tamil Sneham, HSS, Volunteer Hub, Awareness USA, Indo-US Chamber of Commerce, Indian Muslim Association of Tampa, Tampa Nay Bihar and Jharkhand Family, Odia Society of Florida, Srigandha Kanna Kootia, and many more.

The event also featured engaging activities for children, such as essay and elocution competitions, debate contests, and a poster presentation on ISARO. The centerpiece of the celebration was a special exhibit on the Indian Constitution, drawing admiration from all.

MATA Florida Chapter extends its deepest gratitude to all the volunteers, sponsors, and participants for their invaluable contributions to making this event a tremendous success. Together, we have embodied the spirit of “We the People of India,” showcasing the unity and diversity that make our community truly special.