Renowned Telugu poet and lyricist Ande Sri, the voice that gave Telangana its identity through the soul-stirring anthem “Jaya Jayahe Telangana”, has passed away at the age of 64 in Hyderabad. A self-taught visionary who rose from humble beginnings, Ande Sri’s poetry captured the pain, pride, and dreams of millions who fought for a separate Telangana state. His verses were not just words — they were weapons of revolution and emotion that resonated deeply with the people.
Born an orphan and brought up in poverty, Ande Sri defied all odds to become one of the most respected poets in Telugu literature. Despite having no formal education, he built a legacy that transcended boundaries of caste, class, and language. Through his simple yet profound writing, he gave voice to the voiceless, representing the struggles of farmers, workers, and marginalized communities. His journey from the streets to becoming the creator of Telangana’s state anthem remains an inspiring tale of resilience and creativity.
His untimely demise has left an unfillable void in the cultural and emotional landscape of Telangana. Political leaders, artists, and citizens have expressed deep sorrow at his passing, remembering him as not just a poet but as the very heartbeat of the Telangana movement. His anthem, “Jaya Jayahe Telangana,” continues to echo at every official celebration, serving as a reminder of the dreams and sacrifices that built the state.
The Journey of a Self-Made Poet
Ande Sri’s story is a testament to the transformative power of art and perseverance. Growing up without parental support or access to education, he taught himself to read and write by observing his surroundings and listening to folk traditions. His exposure to Telangana’s rich oral culture inspired him to weave songs that spoke of social justice, unity, and pride in one’s roots.
He first gained prominence for his revolutionary writings that criticized social inequality and highlighted the suffering of the poor. His words resonated with the rural masses, and he soon became a leading voice in the Telangana statehood movement. Through poetry, he articulated the anger and aspirations of people who felt ignored by mainstream politics, giving them a shared language of hope and resistance.
The Anthem That Defined Telangana’s Spirit
When Ande Sri penned “Jaya Jayahe Telangana”, it was more than just a song — it was a call for identity. Written during the height of the Telangana movement, the anthem became a rallying cry for millions demanding a separate state. Its verses celebrated the region’s rivers, culture, and resilience while calling for empowerment and self-determination.
After Telangana officially became a state in 2014, the anthem was recognized by the government as the official state song. Its performance during major state functions became a symbol of pride, unity, and remembrance. The song’s powerful imagery and emotional depth reflect Ande Sri’s intimate understanding of Telangana’s heart and soul.
Ande Sri’s Role in the Telangana Movement
Ande Sri’s contribution to the Telangana movement was both cultural and emotional. His songs and speeches provided the soundtrack to the people’s struggle for recognition. Activists, students, and artists sang his compositions during protests and marches, making his art inseparable from the political cause it represented.
Former activist and MLA Danasari Seethakka once remarked that Ande Sri’s words were “the breath of the Telangana movement.” His poetry questioned authority, championed equality, and envisioned a democratic Telangana. Even today, his works are recited at gatherings and remembered as vital instruments that shaped the consciousness of a generation.
Recognition and Legacy
In 2023, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy honored Ande Sri during the state’s formation celebrations with a ₹1 crore cash award, acknowledging his invaluable contribution to Telangana’s cultural heritage. The recognition was a moment of pride for the poet, who dedicated his life to uplifting the state through art and literature.
Beyond the anthem, Ande Sri wrote numerous poems and songs that captured the essence of Telangana’s life — its festivals, fields, and people. His lyrics in Telugu films often reflected the same social conscience that defined his literary works, blending entertainment with message-driven art. His unique poetic voice gave Telugu cinema a rare authenticity and emotional weight.
Art That Spoke for the People
Unlike many contemporary poets, Ande Sri’s verses were deeply rooted in the soil of Telangana. He preferred raw emotion over ornamented language, making his poetry accessible to everyone. His words celebrated the struggles of farmers, the resilience of women, and the dignity of labor. Through simple metaphors and regional idioms, he turned local stories into universal messages of strength and perseverance.
His creative process was spontaneous and intuitive. He often said that his poems were not written but born — emerging naturally from his connection with the people and their pain. That intimacy with his audience made him a beloved figure, someone who spoke for Telangana and as Telangana itself.
The Impact of His Death on Telangana’s Cultural Identity
Ande Sri’s passing marks the end of an era for Telangana’s literary and cultural fraternity. His death is not merely a personal loss to his admirers but a collective one for the state that saw its dreams reflected in his words. Cultural experts fear that his absence may leave a gap in the continuity of Telangana’s people-centered poetic tradition.
However, his legacy ensures that his presence will continue to be felt. The anthem “Jaya Jayahe Telangana” will keep his spirit alive in every official ceremony and every heart that beats with pride for the state. Artists and poets across generations are expected to draw inspiration from his life — a reminder that creativity can emerge even from the harshest struggles.
Remembering the Man Behind the Words
Those who knew Ande Sri personally remember him as humble, grounded, and deeply empathetic. Despite his fame, he never distanced himself from the common people. He would often visit villages, interact with students, and encourage young poets to use their voices for social change. His message was clear — poetry should not just entertain but enlighten.
In his later years, Ande Sri continued to write and participate in cultural programs, spreading the essence of Telangana’s history and identity. His devotion to art until his final days reflects the unwavering passion that defined his life. As tributes pour in from across India, one thing remains certain — the poet who gave Telangana its anthem will forever remain its heartbeat.
A Legacy Etched in Telangana’s Soul
Ande Sri’s story is now part of Telangana’s collective memory. From the streets of struggle to the anthem of celebration, his words chronicled the journey of an entire people. Generations to come will remember him not just as a poet but as the conscience of a movement that redefined India’s cultural map.
His songs will continue to echo through schools, ceremonies, and hearts — reminding everyone that identity, when forged through art and struggle, can never fade. As Telangana moves forward, it does so with Ande Sri’s verses as its eternal compass, guiding its spirit toward unity, pride, and purpose.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
