Hyderabad: Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Nadendla Bhaskara Rao died at the age of 90 on Wednesday morning while undergoing treatment at Continental Hospital in Hyderabad.
He had been suffering from health issues for some time. Doctors were treating him at the hospital when he breathed his last.
His mortal remains will be kept at his residence in Jubilee Hills. Family members, relatives, admirers, and political leaders are expected to pay their respects.
According to family sources, the final rites will take place at the Hindu crematorium in Panjagutta. The ceremony is scheduled for 4 pm on Thursday, in line with his prior instructions.
Nadendla Bhaskara Rao passes away after political legacy
Nadendla Bhaskara Rao was born on June 23, 1935, in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. He completed his law degree from Osmania University.
He entered electoral politics in 1978. Contesting from Vijayawada, he won as a Congress MLA and began his legislative career.
Later, he emerged as a key figure in Andhra Pradesh politics. He worked closely with N. T. Rama Rao in founding the Telugu Desam Party.
In 1983, he contested from the Vemuru constituency in Guntur district as a TDP candidate and secured victory.
After NTR became chief minister, Bhaskara Rao served as finance minister in the cabinet. However, a major political crisis followed soon after.
Nadendla Bhaskara Rao passes away after brief chief minister tenure
During NTR’s medical treatment in the United States, Bhaskara Rao assumed office as chief minister with Congress support. This move triggered a political upheaval across the state.
In response, NTR launched a political campaign under the banner of “Dharma Yuddham.” He later regained power, ending Bhaskara Rao’s tenure.
Bhaskara Rao served as chief minister for 31 days, from August 16 to September 16, 1984. This remains the shortest tenure for a chief minister in Andhra Pradesh’s history.
Several political leaders expressed grief over his death. They conveyed condolences and prayed for his soul.