Andhra Pradesh, once a vibrant hub of diverse and colorful folk art traditions, is now witnessing a slow erosion of its cultural heritage. Iconic art forms such as Tholu Bommalata (leather shadow puppetry), Chekka Bhajana, Gangireddu Aata, Dasarulu, Samu Garadi, Karrasamu, Jamukula Pata, and Yakshaganam are now teetering on the brink of extinction.

These art forms once held a central place in village festivals, religious rituals, and social gatherings. They reflected the history, mythology, and moral values of Telugu society, passed down orally through generations. But in today's fast-paced world, traditional performers find little space, recognition, or economic support to continue their craft.

Many practitioners, often from rural and marginalized communities, have been forced to abandon their art due to financial instability and lack of institutional support. Youngsters from these communities are moving towards other occupations, leaving behind empty stages and forgotten stories.

Cultural experts and senior performers express concern that government schemes for preserving heritage have not adequately reached grassroots artists. Public programs, if any, are limited and urban-centric, with little outreach in rural Andhra where these traditions originated.

Tholu Bommalata artists, for example, now rarely perform due to lack of venues and an audience. Once internationally recognized, their art struggles even for local appreciation. Similarly, art forms like Karrasamu and Samu Garadi, known for their martial and ritualistic elements, are seen only occasionally during temple festivals.

Several art historians stress that immediate intervention from the government, cultural organizations, and educational institutions is needed. Suggestions include:

• Including folk arts in school curricula

• Providing monthly pensions or grants for artists

• Hosting rural cultural festivals

• Creating digital archives for preservation

If left unchecked, Andhra's living traditions may soon become museum exhibits or academic references, rather than active, breathing art forms.