Bronze Statue of Padma Shri Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Unveiled at Anakapalli

The bronze statue of legendary lyricist and Padma Shri awardee Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry was unveiled with grandeur at Gandhinagar, Anakapalli, near the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. The 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.

The ceremony was presided over by former Minister and Anakapalli MLA Sri Konathala Ramakrishna, while renowned filmmaker and writer Sri Trivikram Srinivas unveiled the statue in the presence of Sastry’s family members. A commemorative meeting, Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Mahotsava Sabha, was later held at the Pentakota Convention Hall.

Speaking on the occasion, Sri Konathala Ramakrishna recalled that Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry, born and raised in Anakapalli, brought national and international recognition to his hometown through his literary and lyrical excellence. He said that installing the statue in Gandhinagar, where the poet spent his early life, was both a proud moment and a divine coincidence. He also announced that the Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Kalapeetham would institute an annual award to honour literary excellence.

Addressing the gathering, Trivikram Srinivas said that Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry remains eternally alive in the hearts of people through his words and ideas. He emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of great personalities to inspire future generations.

Former Minister Mandali Buddha Prasad highlighted Sastry’s unparalleled contribution to Telugu cinema and literature, stating that his songs reflected deep human values and patriotism. TANA representative Thotakura Prasad recalled Sastry’s courageous transition from a telecom career to cinema and noted his achievement of winning three consecutive Nandi Awards.

Several dignitaries, public representatives, and members of Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry’s family attended the event. The programme was conducted smoothly under the supervision of Jana Sena in-charge Ranki.

Later, Sri Trivikram Srinivas and Sastry’s family members 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.