Telangana's Voice Falls Silent: Poet Ande Sri Passes Away
The literary world of Telangana mourns the tragic loss of renowned poet Ande Sri, who breathed his last on Monday at the age of 64. The celebrated wordsmith, best known for penning the state's iconic anthem "Jaya Jaya He Telangana," left behind a legacy that defined Telangana's cultural identity.
Sudden Demise Shocks Literary Circles
Ande Sri, whose real name was Ande Yellaiah, was discovered lying unconscious at his Hyderabad residence on Monday morning. Family members immediately rushed him to Gandhi Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead upon arrival. Medical professionals suspect a heart attack as the probable cause of death.
The poet had been battling hypertension and had experienced excessive sweating just two days before his untimely demise. His sudden passing sent shockwaves through Telangana's cultural and political establishments, leaving admirers and colleagues grieving across the state.
Architect of Telangana's Cultural Identity
Ande Sri played a monumental role in the Telangana statehood movement through his powerful songs and writings. His composition "Jaya Jaya He Telangana" became the heartbeat of the separation struggle, eventually earning official recognition as the state song when the Congress government assumed power in December 2023.
The poet's work transcended mere literature, becoming the soulful voice of Telangana's aspirations and cultural pride. His writings captured the essence of the region's identity and continue to inspire generations of Telugu speakers.
Political Tributes Pour In
The news of Ande Sri's passing prompted an outpouring of grief from political leaders across party lines. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy described the poet's demise as "a huge loss to Telangana's literary and cultural world" and directed that his final rites be conducted with full state honors.
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, Telangana BJP president N Ramchander Rao, and BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao joined numerous other leaders in expressing their condolences. The unanimous recognition of his contributions highlighted how Ande Sri's work had transcended political boundaries.
Internet Mourns Cultural Icon
Social media platforms flooded with tributes as news of the poet's death spread. One user captured the collective sentiment, writing: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Ande Sri Garu, a poet who gave Telangana its soulful voice through his powerful words. His writings will forever inspire generations."
Another admirer noted: "His immortal 'Jaya Jaya He Telangana' became the heartbeat of the statehood movement and now proudly stands as our official state song." A third tribute simply stated: "Ande Sri, the Poet laureate of Telangana. Someone who inspired us, stops singing. Truly a sad day for Telangana."
Ande Sri's legacy remains etched in Telangana's cultural consciousness, his words continuing to resonate as the official voice of the state's identity and pride. His contributions to Telugu literature and the statehood movement ensure he will be remembered as one of Telangana's most influential cultural architects.
