Some lives are so powerful that their influence continues long after they end.
One such inspiring life belongs to Potti Sriramulu, a man who gave up everything — comfort, health, and finally his life — for a cause he believed in deeply: the creation of a separate state for Telugu-speaking people.
He is remembered not only as a freedom fighter but also as a symbol of sacrifice and selflessness. His peaceful protest and ultimate death in 1952 became a turning point in Indian history, leading to the birth of Andhra Pradesh, the first state formed on a linguistic basis in independent India.
Early Life and Education
Potti Sriramulu was born on March 16, 1901, in Madras (now Chennai), which was then part of the Madras Presidency under British rule. His parents, Guraviah and Mahalakshmamma, were originally from Nellore district, and they belonged to a humble middle-class family.
From childhood, Sriramulu was known for his honesty, discipline, and strong sense of duty. He was intelligent and hardworking, and he completed his early education in Madras. Later, he obtained a diploma in mechanical engineering and joined the Indian Railways as an employee.
Despite having a stable career, young Sriramulu felt an emptiness inside. The political situation of India under British rule and the growing movement for freedom deeply touched his heart. It was at this stage that he encountered the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi, which changed the entire direction of his life.
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi
Like thousands of young Indians of his generation, Sriramulu found inspiration in Gandhiji’s call for truth and non-violence. He read about Gandhi’s campaigns, his lifestyle, and his vision for a free and self-reliant India.
In 1921, after listening to Gandhi’s speeches during the Non-Cooperation Movement, Sriramulu made a life-changing decision. He resigned from his job in the Railways and decided to dedicate himself completely to the freedom struggle.
This was not an easy decision. Giving up a secure government job in those days meant giving up all financial stability. But for Sriramulu, the love for his country was greater than any personal comfort.
Role in the Freedom Struggle
Once he joined the Indian National Congress, Sriramulu became an active participant in various movements led by Gandhi. He took part in the Salt Satyagraha and Civil Disobedience Movement, often facing imprisonment for his protests against British rule.
However, Sriramulu was not just a political worker. He lived like a true follower of Gandhi, practicing Brahmacharya (celibacy), simplicity, and total devotion to service. His personal life was guided by strong moral and spiritual values. He believed that true freedom meant not only independence from British rule but also freedom from social evils, such as untouchability, illiteracy, and inequality.
A True Gandhian and Social Reformer
After independence in 1947, Sriramulu did not enter politics or seek any government position. Instead, he chose to continue working for social reform, following Gandhi’s path of serving the poor and oppressed.
He spent much of his time among Dalit communities (Harijans), working for their upliftment and fighting against untouchability. He believed that unless social equality was achieved, India’s independence would remain incomplete.
Sriramulu undertook several fasts and campaigns to promote equality and justice. One of his most notable fasts was for the temple entry movement in Nellore district. He fasted until the local leaders agreed to allow Dalits to enter temples — a major step toward social justice in those times.
He also campaigned for prohibition of alcohol, cleanliness, and village development, echoing Gandhi’s vision of a self-sufficient and morally strong India.
The Demand for a Separate Andhra
While India was celebrating independence, the Telugu-speaking people of the Madras State felt that they were being neglected in administration, education, and employment. The state included both Tamil-speaking and Telugu-speaking regions, but the capital and political influence remained largely with Tamil Nadu.
The Telugu people wanted a separate state where their language, culture, and identity could thrive. They had been demanding this since before independence. The Andhra Mahasabha, established in 1913, had been raising this issue for decades.
However, after 1947, the new central government led by Jawaharlal Nehru did not support the creation of linguistic states, fearing it might divide the country. This continued neglect and refusal deeply hurt the Telugu population, and the demand grew louder.
Potti Sriramulu’s Fast for Andhra
When all efforts to convince the government failed, Potti Sriramulu decided to take the path of non-violent protest — the same method he had learned from Gandhi. On October 19, 1952, he began a fast-unto-death in Madras to demand a separate Andhra State for Telugu-speaking people.
At first, very few people paid attention to his protest. But as days went by, people began to realize the seriousness of his commitment. Sriramulu refused to take food or even water after the early stages of his fast. His health began to decline, but his determination remained firm.
He received visitors from across the state — political leaders, journalists, and ordinary citizens — all requesting him to give up his fast. But Sriramulu replied that he would continue until the government agreed to create Andhra State.
The Final Days
Sriramulu’s fast continued for 58 days. By early December 1952, he had grown extremely weak. Doctors warned that his life was in danger, but he refused to stop. On the night of December 15, 1952, Potti Sriramulu breathed his last in his small hut in Madras.
News of his death spread quickly and caused a wave of grief and anger throughout the Telugu-speaking regions. People poured into the streets in protest. Demonstrations, strikes, and marches broke out in many towns, demanding immediate action from the government.
The movement became so strong that the central government could no longer ignore it.
The Formation of Andhra State
Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who had earlier rejected the idea of dividing states based on language, was forced to reconsider his position. He realized that the people’s demand was genuine and that ignoring it could lead to further unrest.
Finally, on October 1, 1953, the Andhra State was officially created. It became the first linguistic state in independent India, formed from the Telugu-speaking districts of the Madras Presidency. Kurnool was chosen as the capital, and T. Prakasam became the first Chief Minister.
Later, in 1956, Andhra State was merged with the Telangana region of Hyderabad to form the modern Andhra Pradesh — a direct result of Sriramulu’s sacrifice.
Impact on India’s Political Map
Potti Sriramulu’s death and the creation of Andhra State had a profound impact on India’s politics. It set a powerful example that linguistic and cultural identity was a legitimate basis for statehood.
This paved the way for the States Reorganization Act of 1956, which redrew the boundaries of Indian states to align with major linguistic groups. As a result, states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, and Karnataka were formed.
Thus, Sriramulu’s sacrifice not only gave birth to Andhra Pradesh but also reshaped the entire political map of India.
Tributes and Legacy
After his death, Sriramulu was hailed as a martyr and given the title “Amarajeevi”, meaning the immortal soul. He became a symbol of peace, sacrifice, and determination.
Across Andhra Pradesh, his memory is honored in various ways. The Potti Sriramulu Telugu University in Hyderabad, established in his name, works to promote the Telugu language and culture. Many roads, schools, and public institutions bear his name, keeping his legacy alive.
Every year, on December 15, people across the state observe Potti Sriramulu Day, paying homage to the man who gave his life for their identity and unity.
Character and Philosophy
Potti Sriramulu’s life reflected the highest values of truth, simplicity, and service.
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He was deeply spiritual, often spending hours in prayer and meditation.
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He believed in non-violence and self-sacrifice as the highest forms of protest.
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He lived a minimalistic life, wearing khadi and eating only simple food.
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He treated everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their caste or background.
Even in his final days, Sriramulu did not show anger or bitterness. His fast was not against anyone — it was for something: the rightful recognition of Telugu people and their culture.
Why His Sacrifice Matters Even Today
In today’s world, where politics often revolves around power and personal gain, Potti Sriramulu’s story stands as a shining example of selflessness and sincerity.
He never sought fame, position, or wealth. His only goal was to serve his people and bring justice to them. His life reminds us that great change often comes not from violence or force, but from moral courage and peaceful determination.
His sacrifice also teaches that language and culture are not mere identities — they are emotional bonds that give people a sense of belonging and pride.
Reflections from Leaders
Mahatma Gandhi once said of Sriramulu, “He is one of the most sincere workers I have seen. His devotion and purity of life make him stand out among men.”
Even Jawaharlal Nehru, who was initially hesitant about creating linguistic states, later admitted that Sriramulu’s sacrifice made him realize the deep emotional connection people have with their language and culture.
Today, many leaders and scholars view Sriramulu as a turning point figure in India’s democratic evolution — someone who proved that non-violent protest could bring about major constitutional and political changes.
The Man Behind the Martyr
Behind the public hero was a humble and deeply spiritual man. He lived in a small hut, often slept on the floor, and spent much of his time serving others. He did not marry, believing that his life’s mission was service to society.
Even when he became famous, he remained modest. He avoided the spotlight and refused any kind of personal recognition. This humility and purity made him a true Gandhian in spirit and action.
Lessons from His Life
Potti Sriramulu’s life offers timeless lessons for everyone:
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Sacrifice for a higher cause gives life true meaning.
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Non-violence and moral strength can achieve what violence cannot.
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Cultural pride is not division — it is the foundation of self-respect.
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Leadership is about service, not power.
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Faith, patience, and determination can move even the strongest walls of resistance.
His life shows that one individual, guided by faith and truth, can awaken millions and transform the destiny of an entire region.
Conclusion
Potti Sriramulu’s story is not just part of Andhra Pradesh’s history — it is part of India’s soul. His fast and death in 1952 were not acts of desperation but expressions of deep conviction and courage. He believed that true justice could only be achieved through peace, sacrifice, and steadfastness.
Because of his determination, the Telugu people got their own state, and India entered a new phase of democratic evolution. He will forever be remembered as the man who gave his life so that Andhra could live.
As generations remember him, his message continues to echo through time:
“Fight for justice, but fight with peace; live simply, but live with purpose.”
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