Visakhapatnam marked the 43rd death anniversary of the renowned Telugu poet Srirangam Srinivasa Rao, widely known as Sri Sri, with a cultural programme organised by the Visakhapatnam district committee of Praja Natya Mandali on Sunday. The event, held on the Beach Road, aimed to celebrate Sri Sri’s enduring literary legacy through various performances.
The programme featured artistic renditions that paid homage to the poet’s influential works. Artistes from the Rajarajeswari Kuchipudi dance troupe and the Muthyalu Ragini group presented Kuchipudi recitals, showcasing classical dance forms. Complementing these performances, artistes from Praja Natya Mandali delivered songs inspired by Sri Sri’s poetry, bringing his verses to life through music.
Floral tributes were paid to Sri Sri by M. Chanti, the district secretary of Praja Natya Mandali, and Francis, the district president of Sahiti Sravanthi. These gestures underscored the continued respect and admiration for the poet’s contributions to Telugu literature and culture.
Organisers stated that this event was part of ‘Kalala Keratalu,’ a monthly cultural platform dedicated to fostering and promoting literature, arts, and progressive cultural traditions. The initiative seeks to provide a space for artists and enthusiasts to engage with and celebrate various art forms and literary figures.
Sri Sri, born on April 30, 1910, in Visakhapatnam, is celebrated as one of the most significant modern Telugu poets. His seminal work, ‘Maha Prasthanam,’ published in 1950, is credited with transforming Telugu poetry by introducing free verse and addressing contemporary social issues. He moved away from traditional mythological themes to reflect the realities of common life, making his poetry accessible and relevant to a wide audience. Sri Sri’s influence extended to Telugu cinema, where he penned lyrics for numerous popular films. He passed away on June 15, 1983, in Chennai.
His literary career was marked by a distinct style and meter that broke from classical traditions. He wrote visionary poems that captured the essence of contemporary life, earning him the title ‘Mahakavi’ (Great Poet). Beyond his poetic achievements, Sri Sri was also recognised for his work in social commentary and his advocacy for human rights. His writings often addressed the struggles of the working class and social injustices, resonating deeply with the Telugu-speaking population.
The cultural programme in Visakhapatnam served as a reminder of Sri Sri’s lasting impact on Telugu literature and his ability to inspire generations through his powerful verses and progressive outlook. The continued observance of his death anniversary highlights his position as a pivotal figure in modern Indian literature.
The Chenab Times News Desk