There has been some wild speculation on why composer M M Keeravani has not spoken on the death of the great Ande Sri, who played a prominent role in the Telangana movement for separatism. Ande Sri’s most notable contribution was writing the official state anthem of Telangana ‘Jaya Jaya Hey Telangana, Janani Jaya Keerthanam’, which was composed by Keeravani.
Now, speaking of his association with Ande Sri, Keeravani said, “Ande Sri ji is a poet who can be equated with the great Annamayya himself, who had enriched Telugu language with his verses. There is an important rule in Telugu grammar when it comes to poetry. It’s called Yathi. Ande Sri is one of the rarest group of Telugu poets, who practiced Yathi.”
Apart from being a great poet, Ande Sri was also friend of Keeravani. “He was a good friend of mine. I composed music for his latest official anthem of Telangana State. He was a very down to earth person. He was fond of mangoes and he used to like the mangoes I offered him at my house. He was a very straightforward person, criticising straight on my face when it had to be done. And also appreciated hard work from his heart.”
Significantly, Keeravani has plans for Ande Sri’s poetry. “His departure is a big loss for Telugu literary world. I am planning to compose for his kaavyam and release - and it’s one of his last ambitions. Kaavyam is a Sanskrit / Telugu word. It means, a collection of poems, something like Tagore’s Gitanjali. I am proud to have composed music for his anthem on Telangana. It’s two minutes long and represents the heritage and riches of Telangana state and remains secular in spirit. My friendship with him happened very recently. So, there are not many moments I can recollect. But whatever time I spent with him will remain invaluable for me.”
BOLLYWOOD NEWS - LIVE UPDATES
Catch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection, New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2026 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.