Bronze Statue of Padma Shri Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Unveiled with Grandeur at Anakapalli
A bronze statue of legendary lyricist, poet, and Padma Shri awardee Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry was unveiled with much grandeur at Gandhinagar, Anakapalli, near the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. The prestigious programme was organized by the TANA Literary Wing – TANA World Literary Forum, with the support of the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Anakapalli Sirivennela Kalapeetham, marking a significant cultural milestone for the region.
The ceremony was presided over by former Minister and Anakapalli MLA Sri Konathala Ramakrishna, while acclaimed filmmaker and writer Sri Trivikram Srinivas unveiled the statue in the august presence of Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry’s family members. A commemorative literary meet titled “Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Mahotsava Sabha” was subsequently held at the Pentakota Convention Hall.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Konathala Ramakrishna fondly recalled that Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry, who was born and brought up in Anakapalli, brought national and international recognition to his hometown through his extraordinary literary and lyrical contributions. He described the installation of the statue at Gandhinagar—where the poet spent his formative years—as a moment of immense pride and a divine coincidence. He also announced that the Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Kalapeetham would institute an annual award to honour excellence in literature.
Speaking on the occasion, Trivikram Srinivas stated that Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry continues to live eternally in the hearts of people through his timeless words and profound ideas. He stressed the need to preserve and celebrate the legacy of such great personalities, as their lives and works serve as a guiding light for future generations.
Former Minister Mandali Buddha Prasad highlighted Sastry’s unparalleled contribution to Telugu cinema and literature, noting that his songs were deeply rooted in human values, social consciousness, and patriotism. Representing TANA, Thotakura Prasad recalled Sastry’s courageous transition from a stable telecom career to the world of cinema and lauded his remarkable achievement of winning three consecutive Nandi Awards, a rare feat in Telugu film history.
The event witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, public representatives, cultural enthusiasts, and members of Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry’s family. The programme was conducted smoothly under the supervision of Jana Sena in-charge Ranki.
Later, Sri Trivikram Srinivas and the family members of Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry were felicitated. They were also accorded a traditional Purna Kumbha Swagatham by the Sri Nookambika Ammavari Devasthanam, followed by darshan, Vedic blessings, and the presentation of sacred prasadam, adding a spiritual touch to the memorable occasion.
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