Gurajada Kalakshetram, Visakhapatnam

Last updated

Gurajada Kalakshetram
Gurajada Kalakshetram, Visakhapatnam
Address Siripuram
Visakhapatnam
India
Coordinates 17°43′13″N83°19′06″E / 17.720325°N 83.318467°E / 17.720325; 83.318467
Owner Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority
Capacity 2,300
Opened1986
Years active1986 onwards

Gurajada Kalakshetram is an open-air theatre located in Visakhapatnam, in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Named after the Telugu playwright and poet Gurajada Apparao, the venue is used for cultural performances, public events, and official gatherings. It is considered one of the notable cultural venues in the North Coastal Andhra region. [1]

Contents

History

The auditorium was inaugurated in 1986 by the then Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. It was established to commemorate the literary contributions of Gurajada Apparao, particularly his work Kanyasulkam , a significant play in modern Telugu theatre. [2] [3] Since its establishment, the venue has hosted various drama festivals, music concerts, and official programs.

Renovation

In 2018, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) undertook renovation works at the site. An amount of approximately ₹2 crore was allocated to upgrade the seating, acoustics, and stage infrastructure. After renovation, the auditorium was reported to have a seating capacity of around 3,000, along with improved facilities for performers and the audience. [4]

Community impact

Gurajada Kalakshetram is also used for public meetings, educational seminars, and civic events. Its location near Siripuram Junction makes it accessible to both residents and visitors. The GVMC leases the venue for private functions, which generates revenue for municipal operations and maintenance. [5]

Architecture

The auditorium features a semi-open architectural design, suitable for the coastal climate of Visakhapatnam. It includes a large raised stage and tiered seating to allow clear views for the audience. Recent upgrades have improved amenities, including landscaping, parking facilities, and green areas around the premises. [6]

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Eminent poet Gurajada remembered". The Times of India. 21 September 2019. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
  2. ↑ "Stone laid for renovation of Gurajada Kalakshetram". The New Indian Express. 28 March 2016. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
  3. ↑ "7 famous auditoriums in Vizag which have hosted countless shows". Yo Vizag. 16 July 2021. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
  4. ↑ "Visakhapatnam's iconic theatre Gurajada Kalakshetram set for inauguration by Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu". Yo Vizag. 25 March 2024. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
  5. ↑ "International Women's Day medical camp at Visakha Gurajada Kalakshetram" (PDF). The Pioneer. 14 March 2024. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
  6. ↑ "Gurajada Kalakshetram". Vizag Explore. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.