Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of eminent Telangana poet Ande Sri.
In a heartfelt message on X, PM Modi said Ande Sri’s passing has left a deep void in India’s cultural and intellectual landscape.
“His thoughts reflected the soul of Telangana. A prolific poet and thinker, he was the voice of the people, articulating their struggles, aspirations, and undying spirit. His words had the power to stir hearts, unite voices, and capture the collective pulse of society. The way he blended social consciousness with lyrical beauty was outstanding. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” the Prime Minister wrote.
The passing of Ande Sri leaves a deep void in our cultural and intellectual landscape. His thoughts reflected the soul of Telangana. A prolific poet and thinker, he was the voice of the people, articulating their struggles, aspirations and undying spirit. His words had the power…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 10, 2025
Nation mourns Literary Legend
Poet Ande Sri, best known for writing Telangana’s state anthem “Jaya Jayahe Telangana Janani Jaya Ketanam,” passed away on Monday morning. Doctors at Gandhi Hospital in Hyderabad were treating him at the time of his death.
He was 64. He was taken to the hospital late on Sunday night after collapsing at his home in Lalaguda.
Born on July 18, 1961, in Rebarthi village of Maddur mandal in the present Jangaon district, Ande Sri’s real name was Ande Yellaiah.
Despite lacking formal education, he rose to become one of Telangana’s most celebrated poets.
In recognition of his contributions to literature and culture, Kakatiya University awarded him an honorary doctorate.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party leader Pawan Kalyan also expressed his grief over the poet’s demise.
In a message on X, he wrote, “By penning the state anthem, he has earned an immortal place in Telangana’s history. His body of work captivates every one of us. He began life as a cattle herder and construction labourer before journeying into the world of letters. He had a deep grasp of Telangana’s folk traditions and rural life and wrote several film songs.”
Pawan Kalyan said that songs like “Mayamaipotunnadamma Manishannavadu” show Ande Sri’s deep understanding of society.
He praised the poet for capturing people’s emotions with powerful words.
Telangana and the literary world mourn the loss of a poet who gave voice to the spirit and pride of the region.
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