Objectives of Arkansas Telugu Samithi (ARTS)- located in Little Rock, the capital of the state of Arkansas, USA,is to support,assist and promote literary, cultural, educational, religious, social, health and community activities of the people of Telugu origin living in the state of Arkansas. Telugu is a Dravidian language primarily spoken in the state of Andhra Pradesh, a state situated on the southeastern coast of India. It is India's fourth largest state by area and fifth largest by population (~85 million). The earliest known inscriptions containing Telugu words appear on coins that date back to 400 BC. The first inscription entirely in Telugu was made in 575 AD. Nineteenth-century Englishmen called Telugu the Italian of the East as all native words in Telugu end with a vowel sound. ARTS aims to achieve success in increasing the quality and quantity of cultural programs involving children and family members and promoting the understanding of Telugu art, culture, music, dance and drama among the children of Telugu speaking people. ARTS is working with local and regional Indian/Asian associations particularly Little Rock and Memphis citiies. All like-minded folks especially Telugu speaking are welcome to be part of ARTS.
ARTS organize cultural events from time to time, performed by artists from the local talent pool. In addition, ARTS encourages participation in the local Indian events to promote awareness of Telugu culture and demonstrate the Telugu Pride and the 'giving nature' to “Natural State” Telugu people. We appreciate and respect support of all to make ARTS a successful organization.
