Hyderabad, November 11: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Monday paid heartfelt tributes to Ande Sri, the revered poet, lyricist, and voice of the Telangana movement, who passed away leaving behind a legacy that shaped the spirit of the State’s identity.
Addressing a press conference after paying last respects to the celebrated poet in Hyderabad, the Chief Minister recalled Ande Sri’s extraordinary contribution to the Telangana struggle through his revolutionary songs and verses that ignited the flame of self-respect and unity among the people.
“Ande Sri was not just a poet — he was the voice of Telangana’s soul. His words gave courage to millions during our struggle for statehood,” the Chief Minister said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Revanth Reddy announced that the State Government will once again write to the Union Government, urging them to confer the Padma Shri award on Ande Sri, whose poetic brilliance and activism remain unmatched.
“We had recommended his name last year, but there was no response. We will write again and strongly appeal to the Centre to honour him posthumously,” the CM said.
He also appealed to Union Ministers G. Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar to rise above political lines and extend support for this national recognition.
“Let us both, the State and Centre, work together to secure the Padma award for this great son of Telangana,” Revanth Reddy urged.
A Memorial for the People’s Poet
In a moving gesture, the Chief Minister announced that the government will establish a Memorial Park in honour of Ande Sri, celebrating his artistic and cultural contributions to Telangana.
Additionally, a government job will be provided to one of his family members, ensuring continued support to the family of the man who gave Telangana its anthem — “Jaya Jayahe Telangana.”
“The loss of Ande Sri is not just personal to me, it’s a loss to the entire Telangana society,” Revanth Reddy said, reminiscing his close association with the poet. “When I was TPCC President, I requested him to continue to raise his voice for the people’s issues. Every song by Gaddar and Ande Sri was a call for justice — an inspiration for our movement.”
Preserving the Poet’s Legacy
Revanth Reddy further announced that the poet’s iconic collection of songs, “Nippula Vaagu”, will be republished in 20,000 copies and distributed to libraries across the State.
Describing it as a “spiritual guide” for those fighting for social justice and Telangana causes, the Chief Minister likened Nippula Vaagu to scriptures that illuminate human struggle — “like the Bhagavad Gita, the Bible, or the Quran for Telangana’s fighters.”
The State Cabinet has also decided to include Ande Sri’s compositions in the school curriculum, ensuring that future generations understand the roots of Telangana’s cultural and political identity.
“Through his words, he will continue to live in every Telangana heart,” the Chief Minister said.
Ande Sri: The Poet of the People
Known for penning the official Telangana State song “Jaya Jayahe Telangana”, Ande Sri’s voice was synonymous with pride, self-respect, and the struggle for statehood. His poetry reflected the pain, hope, and resilience of Telangana’s people — from farmers to students, from workers to artists.
His demise leaves a void that few can fill, but the State Government’s commitment to immortalizing his work ensures that his revolutionary spirit will continue to guide Telangana’s future generations.