Hyderabad: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy paid homage to Telangana poet and lyricist Ande Sri, describing his death as an irreparable loss to Telugu literature. He visited the poet’s residence on Monday and offered floral tributes to the mortal remains.
Speaking to the media, Kishan Reddy recalled his close association with Ande Sri during the Telangana movement. He said they had participated together in many public meetings held across the state during the struggle for statehood. He also remembered several discussions they had at his home on literature, society, and politics.
‘Ande Sri gave voice to Telangana’s spirit’
Kishan Reddy said Ande Sri’s songs, including “Mayamaipothunnadamma Manishannavadu” and “Jaya Jayahe Telangana,” inspired lakhs of people during the movement. “His poetry lit the flame of awareness among the people,” he said.
He described Ande Sri as a fearless voice who expressed truth without hesitation. The minister said the poet had conducted research on rivers across the world for a book project, which remained incomplete due to his untimely death.
Kishan Reddy said Ande Sri admired Prime Minister Narendra Modi deeply and often spoke about his leadership. He noted that the poet rose from a humble background and brought rural Telangana literature to the global stage. “Ande Sri always dreamed of a conscious and awakened society,” he added.