University of Hyderabad to Honour 25 Oggu Katha Artists on August 23

The University of Hyderabad is set to host the 'Oggu Katha Universe 2025 Honours' on August 23 at the Savithri Bai Phule (DST) Auditorium on campus, recognising the contributions of 25 Oggu Katha artists from across Telangana.

The programme is being organised by the Centre for Folk Culture Studies and the Centre for Folklore Studies and Research at the University of Hyderabad, in collaboration with the university's Student Union and the ZEE Institute of Media Arts (ZIMA), Kondapur.

The felicitation aims to acknowledge the artistic excellence, contribution, and lifelong dedication of the 25 folk artists in preserving and passing on the state's traditional folk heritage across generations.

Prof Joly Puthussery, Head of the Centre for Folk Culture Studies, stated that the initiative is an effort to recognise folk performers as custodians of Telangana's living cultural heritage. He noted that the gathering also aims to foster wider awareness regarding the preservation of traditional art forms for future generations.

In addition to the honours ceremony, the event will feature the premiere of 'Gods In The Voice', described as the first English documentary film on Oggu Katha. The film has been designed and directed by Dr Kumara Swamy G, Head of ZIMA.

Attendees will also witness 'Telangana Folk Beats', a live folk orchestra presented by Telangana Samskruthika Sarathi artists. Additionally, a Bathukamma workshop will be conducted during the programme by TSS folk artist Mitta Soumya.