Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry, one of Telugu cinema’s most respected lyricists and a Padma Shri awardee, is considered a legend in the area of song-writing. He left a lasting imprint on literature, film, and cultural thought through his poetry-rich songs and socially rooted ideas. His body of work earned him national acclaim and multiple Nandi Awards. Born and raised in Anakapalli, he rose to national and international prominence by blending classical depth with contemporary sensibility.
An event was organized by the TANA World Literary Forum in collaboration with the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Anakapalli Sirivennela Kalapeetham to unveil his bronze statue. Former minister and current Anakapalli MLA Konathala Ramakrishna presided over the ceremony. The official unveiling was performed by star Tollywood director Trivikram Srinivas, who was joined by members of the Sastry family.
Following the ceremony, the Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Mahotsava Sabha was held at the Pentakota Convention Hall. The proceedings, which included various public representatives and dignitaries, were overseen by Jana Sena in-charge Ranki.
During his address, Konathala Ramakrishna noted that Sastry brought global recognition to his birthplace of Anakapalli. He described the statue's placement in Gandhinagar, the poet's childhood home, as a heartfelt tribute. He announced that the Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry Kalapeetham will establish an annual award dedicated to honoring excellence in literature.
Trivikram Srinivas spoke on the enduring nature of the poet’s work, stating that Sastry remains alive through the ideas and words embedded in the public mind. He underlined the importance of maintaining the legacies of such figures to provide inspiration for future generations. As part of the proceedings, the Nookambika Ammavari Devasthanam accorded Srinivas and the Sastry family a traditional Purna Kumbha Swagatham, followed by Vedic blessings and the presentation of prasadam.
Former minister Mandali Buddha Prasad remarked on Sastry’s ability to infuse Telugu cinema with human values and patriotic themes.
TANA representative Thotakura Prasad shared insights into the poet's early life, mentioning Sastry’s decision to resign from a telecommunications career to pursue cinema, a move that eventually led to him winning three consecutive Nandi Awards.
The event concluded with the felicitation of Trivikram Srinivas and the family members of the late lyricist.
The lyricist passed away in 2021.
