Being the capital of a state with a very rich cultural heritage, Hyderabad offers a glimpse of a variety of performing arts, which are unique to Andhra Pradesh. Kuchipudi, a classical dance form, derives its name from a village just north of the Krishna delta. Historically, Kuchipudi presented scenes from the Hindu epics and mythological tales through dance-dramas that combined music, dance and acting. The lyrics are mostly Telugu, although Sanskrit is also used.

Shadow puppetry is  another  famous folk  art.   Perforated leather puppets depicting mythological characters from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharatha, are handled with bamboo sticks against a brilliant lamp - lit background. This is performed to the accompaniment of perfection instruments and Lyrical narrations. As many as 19 tribes inhabit the Araku Valley, which is 115 kilometers from Visakhapattanam. Their repertoire of colorful dances and folk songs, an essential part of religious processions and harvest celebrations are another facet of the state's cultural traditions.