Ande Sri biography — age, background, career as a Telugu poet-lyricist, early life in Telangana, education, awards, and his contributions to literature and state movement.
Ande Sri is a prominent Telugu poet and lyricist whose powerful words and songs deeply resonated with the people of Telangana. Known particularly for his anthem-writing and his evocative depiction of rural, cultural and social themes in his poetry, he emerged from modest origins to become a voice of his region. His story matters because it demonstrates how the voice of the under-represented can reflect broader cultural identity, and how creativity rooted in place and heritage can become influential.
Highlights of This Biography
- Full Name: Ande Sri (also known as Ande Yellanna)
- Date of Birth: July 18, 1961
- Place of Birth: Rebarthi village, Jangaon/Warangal district, Telangana, India
- Profession: Poet, Lyricist
- Age: 64 (at time of death in 2025)
- Education: No formal education; self-taught in poetry and lyrics
- Net Worth: Not publicly documented
- Marital Status / Wife: Public information on spouse not widely documented
- Major Achievement: Wrote the Telangana movement anthem “Jaya Jaya Hey Telangana, Janani Jaya Kethanam”
Early Life
Ande Sri was born in the remote village of Rebarthi in what is now Jangaon district of Telangana. Growing up, he did not have the benefit of advanced schooling or formal education. Sources indicate that he grew up as an orphan, with uncertain childhood records, and at times worked as a shepherd or in labour roles in rural settings. His early years instilled in him a deep connection to nature, rural life, the struggles of the poor, and the cultural traditions of his homeland.
Education
While Ande Sri lacked conventional formal education, he cultivated his talents through lived experience—observing, listening, writing, absorbing the folklore, culture, and rhythms of village life. Despite being un-lettered in a strict academic sense, his gift for language and verse became apparent. He later was honored with an honorary doctorate from Kakatiya University in recognition of his contributions.
Career / Professional Journey
Ande Sri’s professional life unfolded as he began writing poetry and lyrics in Telugu, focusing on regional themes with a strong social and cultural voice. His songs and poems gained popularity; one of his most significant works became the anthem for the Telangana statehood movement. The phrase and song “Jaya Jaya Hey Telangana, Janani Jaya Kethanam” became emotionally charged, widely sung, and symbolic of the political and cultural aspirations of the region.
Over time, Ande Sri penned thousands of poems and lyrics. His songs featured in Telugu films, on stage programs, and in public gatherings. His work celebrated rural life, Dalit identity struggles, nature, community, and regional pride. Although lacking commercial backing typical of major film lyricists initially, his authenticity and resonance with audiences brought him recognition, awards, and influence.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
There is no widely published figure for Ande Sri’s net worth. His life was rooted in cultural and literary service rather than commercial profit. While his songs and works may have provided some income, he is remembered more for his artistic legacy and regional impact than for financial accumulation. His lifestyle reportedly reflected his rural roots and his identity as a socially grounded poet rather than a celebrity figure.
Personal Life & Family
Public information about Ande Sri’s personal life, spouse or children is limited. He maintained a relatively private personal profile compared to his public literary presence. He came from a background of hardship and marginalisation, and his work often mirrored his upbringing. The absence of detailed public records about his family indicates either personal choice or minimal documentation. His familial identity is less emphasised than his identity as a poet of his people and place.
Death
Ande Sri passed away on November 10, 2025 in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. He was aged 64. His death prompted expressions of grief across the literary and cultural community, particularly in Telangana where his work had become integral to the regional identity.
Conclusion
Ande Sri’s journey from a remote village, with minimal formal schooling, to becoming a celebrated regional poet and lyricist is a testament to the power of authentic voice, cultural rootedness and creative persistence. His contribution to Telugu literature and to the political-cultural movement of Telangana gives him a legacy of more than just words—it places him as a symbol of regional pride and artistic truth. While he may not have accumulated vast wealth or fame in the conventional sense, his influence resonates widely among people who found voice and identity through his verses.
FAQs About Ande Sri
What was Ande Sri’s educational background?
He did not receive conventional formal education; he was self-taught in poetry and language and later received an honorary doctorate for his work.
When was Ande Sri born and how old was he when he died?
He was born on July 18, 1961 and died on November 10, 2025, at age 64.
What is Ande Sri best known for?
He is best known for his poetry and lyrics in Telugu, especially the anthem of the Telangana statehood movement.
Did Ande Sri earn a high net worth?
No publicly documented net-worth figures are available; his legacy is primarily artistic and cultural rather than financial.
Was Ande Sri married or have children?
Public details about his spouse and children are not widely documented.
Where was Ande Sri from?
He hailed from Rebarthi village in the Jangaon (formerly Warangal) district of Telangana, India.
What themes did Ande Sri write about in his work?
His work focused on rural life, social identity (especially Dalit experience), nature, regional pride, and cultural transformation.