Telangana’s Renowned Poet Ande Sri Passes Away

By Ch V Prabhakar Rao.

Hyderabad November 10 (Praja Mantalu):

A tragic incident shocked Telangana on Monday. Celebrated poet, lyricist and Telangana movement icon Dr. Ande Sri (64) passed away. On Monday early mirning , Ande Sri suddenly collapsed at his residence after suffering severe discomfort. Family members immediately rushed him to Gandhi Hospital. Despite treatment, he breathed his last at 7:25 AM on Monday, doctors confirmed.

A Poet Who Rose Without Formal Education

Born as Ande Ellayya on July 18, 1961, in Rebarthi village, Jangaon of the erstwhile Warangal district, Ande Sri had no formal school education. However, his natural talent, deep observation of rural life, and rich vocabulary made him a legendary poet in Telugu literature. He evolved into one of the most respected voices of Telangana soil.

People’s Poet – Nature’s Poet

Ande Sri earned the titles “Praja Kavi” (People’s Poet) and “Prakriti Kavi” (Nature Poet) for his soulful poetry that reflected the emotions of ordinary villagers, the beauty of nature, and the cultural spirit of Telangana.
His songs were widely sung during the Telangana statehood movement, igniting passion and unity among youth and activists.

‘Mayamipothunnadamma’ – The Song That Made Him a Cultural Icon

His iconic song “Mayamipothunnadamma”(The man who is disappearing is a man) became a symbol of the struggles, pain and fading traditions of rural Telangana.
Without schooling, he rose to fame with this masterpiece that captured the hearts of millions.

Key Role in the Telangana Movement

During the peak of the Telangana agitation, Ande Sri’s powerful songs became the emotional backbone of the movement.
His famous composition “Jai Telangana” became the signature song of the Telangana struggle.
The Telangana government later declared this song as the official state anthem, marking a historic milestone.

‘Jayahe’ – A Song that Brought National Recognition

His song “Jayahe” made him popular across the country, showcasing Telangana’s culture and societal realities. His writing style was rooted in raw emotion and natural Telugu dialect.

Recent Honour – Award from Telangana Chief Minister

On June 2, 2025, during Telangana Formation Day celebrations, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy presented Ande Sri with a cash award, which turned out to be the last major honour of his life.

Family

Ande Sri is survived by three daughters and one son. His sudden demise has left his family, admirers and the literary community in deep sorrow.

Widespread Mourning Across Telangana

Poets, writers, cultural activists and political leaders across Telangana expressed grief, calling his death a “remarkable loss to the cultural identity of Telangana.”
Tributes poured in across social media platforms, where people shared his songs, poems and memories.