Professional singer Srikanth Sandugu (in the cartoon jacket) gets audience members to their feet in celebration. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento Telangana Association (STA), a cornerstone of cultural and community enrichment for the past decade, continues to promote unity, progress and empowerment among the Indian diaspora in the region. In a night filled with cultural splendor and community spirit, Sacramento Telangana Association celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of progress, unity and resilience.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Council Member Linda Budge. With more than four decades of dedicated service, including five terms as mayor, Budge has been recognized for her significant contributions to the City of Rancho Cordova. Her leadership and vision have had a profound impact, inspiring numerous individuals.

 Council Member Linda Budge holds her Life Achievement Award proudly. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

Budge's service reflects principles such as education, advocacy and community organization. She has advocated for quality education, supported scholarships, and championed causes like self-governance, affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and social equity. Her organizational skills have promoted collaboration and strengthened community ties.

By honoring Linda Budge with this Lifetime Achievement Award, the Sacramento Telangana Association celebrates her impact and dedication. The award presented to Council Member Budge was called the Bathukamma, meaning “mother of life”.

The celebration was nothing short of spectacular. Entertainers flown in from India enthralled the audience with vibrant performances, showcasing the rich heritage and cultural diversity of Telangana. The night was a true testament to the community’s spirit, filled with music, dance, and jubilant festivities.

 Four young girls perform a dance routine during the event. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

The association's journey has been shaped by three core principles: Educate, Agitate, and Organize. Education, which is the cornerstone of the association's mission, empowers the community through continuous learning. Just as Telangana emerged from a historic struggle, education has served as the guiding light for the Sacramento Telangana Association. The association fosters a culture of learning, aiming to empower its members to become future leaders.

 Council Member Linda Budge thanks the Association for her life achievement award. Holding the award is Sacramento Telangana Association Co-Founder Anil Reddy Kondakrindi. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

Inspired by Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar's words, “Agitate for justice,” the association has been a vocal advocate against injustice, championing rights, culture, and heritage. Recognizing that transformative change often starts with agitation, the association urges the community to persist in advocating for equality, justice, and dignity for all.

 Telangana women showcased their traditional outfits at the event. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

The Sacramento Telangana Association’s strength lies in its ability to organize. From vibrant celebrations like the Festival of Flowers to the Festival of Lights, the association’s events have served as a platform to unite the community and celebrate shared identity and purpose. They encourage continued collaboration, mutual support, and building a legacy that celebrates heritage while enhancing their impact and empowering future generations.  

The celebration also recognized and honored Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, Consulate General of India in San Francisco, and newly appointed first Indian American Superior Court Judge of Sacramento County, Jaya Badiga.

 Members of the Sacramento Telangana Association Board of Directors pose with Council Member Linda Budge and her award. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

The success of the event was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Sacramento Telangana Association Board, including President Srinath Babu, Reddy Moola, Sunitha, Dr. Natraj, Swapna, Himabindu, Jagan, Basani, Srinivas, Sonith, the Board of Trustees, Founder Satish, Laxma, Rekha, and Event Committee Chairman and Founding Trustee Kumbam Srinivas Reddy, along with hundreds of volunteers.

The event also acknowledged several community leaders and changemakers, including City of Rancho Cordova Vice Mayor Siri Pulipati, Council Member Garrett Gatewood, Cordova Recreation and Park District Vice Chair Rick Sloan, Folsom Cordova School Board Member Chris Clark, Folsom Council Member YK Chalam, Sacramento County Supervisor-Elect Rosario Rodriguez, Rancho Cordova City Manager Micha Runner and Planning Commissioner Surender Devarapalli.

 Two young girls dance in the audience to the festive music. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

The Sacramento Telangana Association Board President Srinath Babu concluded the event by expressing gratitude to the community leaders, friends, and elected representatives present, acknowledging their unwavering support in achieving the association's mission and vision. He called upon the leaders to join him on stage for a standing ovation, honoring their contributions to the community.

As the evening ended, Event Committee Chair Srinivas Reddy Kumbam reaffirmed the association's unwavering commitment to a future of inspiration, empowerment, and transformative impact. "Together, we can achieve extraordinary things. Jai Telangana!" he concluded.

Anil Reddy Kondakrindi is the Sacramento Telangana Association co-founder.