Telugu poet Andesri, who penned state song `Jaya Jayahe Telangana’, passes away

Hyderabad: Noted Telugu poet and lyricist Andesri, best known for penning the state song `Jaya Jayahe Telangana’, passed away in Hyderabad early Monday morning. He was 64.

According to family members, the noted writer collapsed at his residence late Sunday night after suffering sudden ill health. He was immediately rushed to Gandhi Hospital, where doctors declared him dead around 7:25 a.m. despite treatment efforts.

A voice that echoed Telangana’s Spirit

Born on July 18, 1961, in Rebarthi village of Siddipet district, Andeshri, whose real name was Ande Ellayya, emerged as one of the most influential literary figures during the Telangana statehood movement.

His iconic composition “Jaya Jayahe Telangana” became the rallying cry for millions during the agitation for a separate state and was later adopted as the official state anthem. Through his verses, Andesri captured the hopes, struggles, and cultural pride of Telangana’s people.

Honours and Literary Contributions

Over the years, Andesri received numerous honours for his contributions to Telugu literature and public life.

2006: Nandi Award for the film “Ganga”.

2014: Academy of Universal Global Peace Doctorate.

2015: Dasarathi Literary Award and Ravuri Bharadwaja Literary Award.

2022: Janakamma National Award.

2024: Dasarathi Krishnamacharya.

Literary Award and Lok Nayak Award

He was also conferred an Honorary Doctorate by Kakatiya University and was recently presented with a Rs 1 crore cash award by the Telangana government for his literary service.

Master of Instant Poetry

Known for his sharp wit and effortless command over verse, Andesri was celebrated for his skill in Ashuvu Kavitvam (spontaneous poetry). His quick compositions, often recited at public events, reflected his deep connection to the Telugu language and Telangana’s cultural ethos.

Tributes from across the State

Expressing deep grief over his sudden demise, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy described Andesri’s death as an “irreparable loss to the literary world.”

“The song ‘Jaya Jayahe Telangana’ united millions of voices during our statehood movement. Andeshri gave words to the emotions of an entire people,” the Chief Minister said, recalling his personal association with the poet. He added that the state government recently worked with Andesri on a re-orchestration of the state anthem with new arrangements.

Family and Final Rites

Andesri is survived by three daughters and a son. Family members said funeral arrangements are being made at his native village in Siddipet district, where prominent poets, writers, artists, and admirers are expected to pay their last respects.

CM orders state honours

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy instructed the Chief Secretary to issue necessary orders and make immediate arrangements for the last rites. Describing Andesri as an “inseparable part of Telangana’s emotional and cultural identity,” the CM said the state would forever remain indebted to his contribution.

Leaders recall Andesri’s legacy

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy described Andesri as a poet who “touched every section of society through his words.” He said the anthem will forever remain a milestone in the state’s history.

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar noted that Andesri’s songs were rooted in real-life experiences and social realities. “He lived for the self-respect of Telangana and the upliftment of the poor. Though he is gone, he will live on through his songs,” he said.

A loss to the literary world

Telangana Minister for Revenue, Housing and I&PR Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy said Andesri’s writings and singing played a decisive role in strengthening the spirit of the movement.

TPCC President Mahesh Kumar Goud termed him a literary pioneer whose contribution shaped the emotional identity of Telangana. “His song Jaya Jayahe Telangana strengthened the movement and defined the pride of the state,” he said.

Minister for Panchayat Raj and Women & Child Welfare Dr. D. Anasuya Seethakka said Andesri’s work ignited consciousness among people during the statehood struggle. “The inspiration he created will live as long as Telangana exists,” she observed.

Tributes from across the spectrum

Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao called Andesri “not just a poet but the voice of Telangana.” CPI leaders Chada Venkata Reddy and Kunamneni Sambasiva Rao also paid rich tributes, recalling how his songs fueled the movement’s momentum.