On the crisp evening of December 7, 2024, the Pilgrim’s Way Church in East Ham, London, became a vibrant hub of joy and festivity as the Telugu Association of London (TAL) hosted its 16th Annual Christmas celebrations. The event welcomed over 250 members of the Telugu community, who came together to honor traditions, share in the festive spirit, and strengthen their cultural ties.
The celebrations began with an enchanting performance by children, whose melodious Christmas carols and lively traditional dances set the tone for the evening. Their heartfelt efforts earned warm applause from an audience that included families, elders, and dignitaries alike. The church’s halls resonated with the sounds of joy and camaraderie, a fitting prelude to the evening’s main events.
Adding a spiritual dimension to the festivities, Rev. Salomi Sukhesh, Pastor Ajay, and Pastor Bharat took turns addressing the gathering. Their messages focused on the true essence of Christmas – love, sharing, and unity. They reminded attendees of the importance of faith and compassion, encouraging everyone to embrace the season’s values. Complementing their words, Praveen Manikonda led a soulful worship session, performing a mix of traditional carols and devotional songs that stirred emotions and uplifted spirits.
The evening took on a special significance with the arrival of the Chief Guest, Sir Stephen Timms, MP for East Ham. Addressing the crowd, Sir Stephen expressed his admiration for the Telugu community’s efforts to uphold their culture while integrating into British society. He commended the support extended by local churches and praised TAL for its unwavering dedication to organizing events that foster community cohesion.
TAL Chairman Ravi Sabba took to the stage to deliver heartfelt Christmas greetings, reflecting on the organization’s journey and its commitment to preserving Telugu heritage. He was joined by trustees Anil Ananthula, Ravi Kumar Reddy Mocherla, Venkat Neela, Sreedevi Aleddula, Ashok Madishetti, and Roy Boppana, who echoed his sentiments. Together, they highlighted the collective efforts that made the evening possible, emphasizing the importance of community support and teamwork.
The event also acknowledged the hard work of the organizing team – Ravi Mocherla, Jemima Dara, Ratnakar Dara, Padma Kundan, Karunakar, and their dedicated volunteers. Cultural Trustee Sreedevi Aleddula expressed her gratitude to the team, noting their tireless efforts in ensuring the event’s success.
As the evening progressed, a delightful surprise awaited the attendees. A group of children, dressed as Santa Claus, emerged to distribute gifts. Their cheerful presence and playful interactions brought smiles to every face, young and old. The gesture symbolized the joy of giving, a core aspect of the Christmas spirit.
The celebrations concluded with a delectable dinner, offering a feast that reflected the flavors of the season. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to share a meal, exchange stories, and strengthen their bonds within the Telugu community. For those unable to attend in person, the event was live-streamed on TAL’s Facebook page, enabling Telugu individuals worldwide to partake in the festive cheer.
The 16th Annual TAL Christmas celebration was more than just an event; it was a reflection of the organization’s mission to unite the Telugu diaspora, celebrate shared traditions, and create lasting memories. The joyous occasion left attendees with a sense of pride, belonging, and a renewed commitment to community spirit.