‘Pakshula Pandaga’: Andhra’s Kolleru Lake All Decked Up To Host Pelican Fest From 3 February

Andhra Pradesh’s Kolleru Lake is all set to host the Pelican Festival at the Atapaka bird sanctuary on 3 February, reports The New Indian Express. Kolleru is among the largest freshwater lakes in the country.

Officials have already begun to make preparations for the ‘Pakshula Pandaga’ at the Atapaka Village, which is located on the border of the Krishna and West Godavari districts.

Talking about the annual event, B Lakshmikantham, the District Collector said that over 5,000 pelican birds travel almost 3,500 kms from places like Nigeria, Russia, Australia and Africa to reach the lake, breed and fly away with their young ones during the winter season.

“Last year, we decided to organise the festival in a grand way every year. It will be organised by the tourism department in collaboration with the forest department this year. This festival gives people the chance to experience nature and capture some of its best moments.” He also added that plans are underway to develop the event as a major tourist attraction.

Lakshmikantham added that the noted singers and film stars would perform in the cultural programmes at the sanctuary. Students are invited to the festival to observe the birds. For the celebration, the sanctuary is decorated, and competitions will be held with prizes for participating visitors.