Lagatar24 Desk
Hyderabad: Renowned Telugu poet and lyricist Ande Sri, celebrated for composing Telangana’s official state song “Jaya Jayahe Telangana,” passed away early Monday at the age of 64. His death has been described as a profound loss to the state’s literary and cultural landscape.
Life and Legacy of a Self-Made Poet
Born Ande Yellanna in Rebarthi village, Siddipet district, in 1961, Ande Sri rose from humble beginnings — an orphan with no formal education who once worked as a shepherd and construction labourer — to become one of the most admired voices in Telugu literature. His 12-stanza anthem “Jaya Jayahe Telangana, Janani Jaya Kethanam” became the emotional heartbeat of the Telangana statehood movement and was later adopted as the official state anthem.
Despite his lack of schooling, he authored thousands of poems and lyrics that deeply resonated with people across Telangana. His song “Maayamaipothunnadamma Manishanavadu” from the film Erra Samudram became a critical and cultural landmark, earning a place in Andhra Pradesh University’s graduation syllabus in 2009. He also received the Nandi Award for Best Lyricist (2006) for the film Ganga.
Honours and Tributes
In recognition of his literary contributions, Kakatiya University awarded him an honorary doctorate, and in June 2025, the Telangana government honoured him with a ₹1 crore cash award during the State Formation Day celebrations.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow, calling Ande Sri a “towering figure of Telangana literature.” He recalled spending hours with the poet during the re-composition of the state anthem, adding that the song “stood as the voice of crores during the Telangana movement.” The CM directed officials to conduct the poet’s last rites with full state honours.
Former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao also paid tribute, stating that Ande Sri’s verses “strengthened the spirit of the Telangana movement.” Admirers noted that his heartfelt, earthy language captured the essence of Telangana’s cultural pride and identity — ensuring his legacy will endure through his timeless works.
