Bronze Statue of Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Unveiled Grandly in Anakapalli

 Bronze Statue of Padma Shri Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Inaugurated in Anakapalli

Anakapalli | 25-01-2026:

A bronze statue of legendary lyricist and Padma Shri awardee Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry was unveiled in a grand ceremony at Gandhinagar, Anakapalli, near the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. The event was organised by the TANA Literary Wing – TANA World Literary Forum, with support from the Government of Andhra Pradesh and Anakapalli Sirivennela Kalapeetham.

The programme was chaired by former Minister and Anakapalli MLA Sri Konathala Ramakrishna, while celebrated filmmaker and writer Sri Trivikram Srinivas unveiled the statue in the presence of Sastry’s family members. A commemorative gathering titled “Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Mahotsava Sabha” was later held at Pentakota Convention Hall.

Speaking at the event, Konathala Ramakrishna remembered Sastry as a proud son of Anakapalli who brought widespread recognition to the town through his timeless writing. He said placing the statue in Gandhinagar, where Sastry spent his early years, was a moment of pride and emotional significance. He also announced that the Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Kalapeetham will introduce an annual award to encourage and honour literary excellence.

Trivikram Srinivas, addressing the gathering, said Sastry continues to live forever through his powerful words and thought-provoking ideas. He stressed that preserving the memories of such great personalities is essential to inspire the next generation.

Former Minister Mandali Buddha Prasad highlighted Sastry’s unmatched impact on Telugu cinema and literature, stating that his songs carried strong human values and patriotic spirit. TANA representative Thotakura Prasad recalled Sastry’s bold decision to leave a telecom career and enter cinema, noting his rare feat of winning three consecutive Nandi Awards.

The event saw participation from several dignitaries, public representatives, and Sastry’s family members. The programme was coordinated smoothly under the supervision of Jana Sena in-charge Ranki.

Later, Trivikram Srinivas and Sastry’s family members were felicitated. They also received a traditional Purna Kumbha Swagatham from the Sri Nookambika Ammavari Devasthanam, followed by darshan, Vedic blessings, and the offering of sacred prasadam.