Well-known writer Ravella no more

He is survived by wife and four sons. Among his popular songs is ‘Dheerulaku Mogasala Raa, Veerulaku Kaanaachi Raa.’ His reputed works include ‘Ragajyotulu,’ ‘Jeevana Raagam,’ ‘Chaitanya Sravanti,’ ‘Palle Bharati.’ Rao was a recipient of several literary awards given in memory of Jashuva, Dasaradhi and Gurajada.

Rao was born on January 30, 1927 at Gokinepalli. He joined the Andhra Mahasabha at the age of 14 years. Later, he participated in the Telangana Armed Struggle as a Dalam commander and defied the Nizam’s rule, after. He also took part in agitations against landlords. For his role in the Armed Struggle, he was imprisoned for four years. Rao undertook a campaign in 84 villages to popularise vocational education.

TRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao, several Telangana protagonists, writers and leaders of various political parties condoled Rao’s death. Etela Rajender, TRS floor leader, writer Desapati Srinivas and others laid wreaths on the body in the evening and paid rich tributes.

Etela said the songs of Rao were popular and inspiring. He described the writer’s death as a “great loss to the people of Telangana.”

• His songs & poems inspired Telangana armed struggle
• He was jailed for 4 years for taking part in the struggle