Renowned Telangana Poet Ande Sri Passes Away; Wrote State Song ‘Jaya Jayahe Telangana’

Renowned Telugu poet and lyricist Ande Sri, best known for penning the iconic Telangana state anthem "Jaya Jayahe Telangana Janani Jayakethanam", passed away at age 64 in the early hours of November 10, 2025, while undergoing treatment at Gandhi Hospital. The celebrated writer, who suffered a sudden illness at his residence on Sunday night, was rushed to the facility by family members but could not be saved. His last rites will be performed with full official honours, as announced by authorities.

Born in Rebarthi village of Siddipet district, Ande Sri rose from humble beginnings as a shepherd and construction labourer to become a towering figure in Telugu literature and the Telangana statehood movement. Despite lacking formal education, his raw talent and powerful verses captured the aspirations of millions, earning him widespread acclaim. Songs like "Maayamaipothunnadamma" became rallying cries during the struggle for separate statehood.

Ande Sri's contributions were recognised with an honorary doctorate from Kakatiya University and a recent ₹1 crore award from the Telangana government for his literary and cultural impact. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed profound grief, calling it an "irreparable loss" and noting that the government had recently re-orchestrated the state song under his administration. "A towering figure of Telangana literature has fallen," Reddy stated, extending condolences to the family.

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The lyricist's death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, artists, and activists who credit him with giving voice to the Telangana identity. His anthem, officially adopted as the state song, continues to evoke pride and unity across the region.

As the literary community mourns, Ande Sri's legacy endures through his evocative poetry that bridged folk traditions with modern activism, inspiring generations in a state he helped shape through words.

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