Telangana Poet Ande Sri Passes Away at 64; Lyricist of State Anthem Remembered for His Inspiring Journey
- KR Bharat
- 2025-11-10
Famous Telangana poet and lyricist Ande Sri, best known for writing the state anthem “Jaya Jayahe Telangana”, passed away on 10 November 2025 at the age of 64 in Hyderabad. He reportedly suffered a sudden illness and was admitted to Gandhi Hospital, where he breathed his last early Monday morning. Born in Rebarthi village of Siddipet district, Ande Sri — whose real name was Ande Yellaiah — had no formal education and started his life as a shepherd and daily wage worker. Despite his humble beginnings, his powerful and emotional writings became anthems of pride and identity for the people of Telangana, especially during the statehood movement.
Throughout his career, Ande Sri became a voice of the common man, expressing the struggles, dreams, and spirit of Telangana’s people through his poetry and songs. His works such as “Maayamaipothunnadamma” inspired thousands during the Telangana agitation. He was honored with an honorary doctorate from Kakatiya University and received ₹1 crore from the Telangana government in recognition of his contributions to literature and culture. Leaders including KCR and KTR mourned his death, calling it an irreparable loss to Telangana’s cultural and literary world.
