BEST AND VERSE: Poet Garikipati Narasimha Rao performing `Ashtavadhanam' in Guntur. Coorthalam Peetadipati Sri Siddheswarananda Bharati Swamy is also seen. — PHOTO: T.VIJAYA KUMAR

GUNTUR : For those present at the `Sahiti Vasantotsavam' celebrating the dawn of the Telugu New Year on Tuesday, it was a true delight as they were treated to a fascinating literary feat, `Ashtavadhanam' by noted poet, Garikipati Narasimha Rao. The literary genius mesmerised the audience with a superb performance at the Ugadi festivities organised by city-based literary organisation, Sahiti Samakhya.

There were moments of great oration interspersed with rib-tickling humour and laced with thoughtful reflections on contemporary themes. Garikipati called upon his immense powers of concentration and memory to handle eight poets, reeling of couplets impromptu and win the contest without breaking a sweat. One of such themes was on the travails one has to face while using a cell phone. Making use of his vast repertoire, Garikipati delivered several impromptu verse couplets on the frivolous ring tunes, the whopping monthly bills and the unwanted SMSes.

This one was special. The poet was asked by Nalluri Raukmini to imagine a situation where Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy relinquishes his power and hands it down to N. Chandrababu Naidu. The poser was to how Mr. Naidu, known for his stoic manner, would react to this unexpected offer.

Masterly performance

Garikipati paused for a while and then blurted out: "Kalalonaina Sadhyama? Eee Kalamlo Sadhyame" (Is it possible even in dream? It might be possible in the present uncertain political climate), that had the audience in splits. Earlier, the New Year almanac was read by Hindu College Reader, D.N. Dikshitulu predicted a rosy future for the State . Samakhya secretary S.V.S. Lakhsmi Narayana hoped that the event might motivate youngsters to read Telugu literature.

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