Roy Cooper, the governor of North Carolina, declared May 28–June 3, 2023, “Telugu Heritage Week,” commemorating the Telugu community and culture for their enormous contributions to the state’s growth across a range of sectors. The State Proclamation said that in honor of NTR’s birth centennial on May 28, the North Carolina Telugu community would assemble on June 3, 2023, to remember and celebrate his life as Telugu Pride Day and to exhibit their distinctive heritage and culture.
Telugu is one of the oldest surviving ethnic languages, known for its rich literature and distinctive etymological formations, with inscriptions dating back to 400 B.C.E., according to the proclamation. Telugu tradition has made a significant contribution to the cultural, demographic, and linguistic diversity of India.
The proclamation recognizes that North Carolina State, which is home to numerous Telugu-speaking families, is important in conserving and promoting Indian heritage and culture. This enriches the state’s diversity. At the Sri Venkateswara Temple of North Carolina in Cary, the community has taken the initiative to create the tallest Hindu temple edifice in North America.
The late Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, also known as NTR, the legendary Telugu actor and the former Chief Minister of the combined state of Andhra Pradesh, is also recognized for his significant contributions to Telugu politics, culture, and entertainment. He became a national icon for all Telugu-speaking communities.
