Sankranthi celebrations started nearly ten days early in Vijayawada. The Amaravati Press Club hosted a grand event on January 4, 2026, at Nalanda School grounds. This gathering brought the spirit of rural harvest traditions into the city. Journalists’ families and local residents came together, with three to four generations dressed in traditional attire. The festival kicked off with lighting the sacred Bhogi bonfire, marking the start of Sankranthi. Cultural performances followed, including Haridasu devotional songs and Gangireddulu dances. Students impressed everyone with traditional dances in ethnic costumes. Women took part in rangoli competitions, creating colourful ‘muggulu' decorated with 'gobbeammalu’, adding to the festive feel. Children enjoyed kite flying, rooster contests, and joyful bullock cart rides. These activities aimed to teach young people about old traditions while celebrating together. Prizes were given to the winners of various contests, stated a press release.