India’s struggle for independence created many heroes — people who gave up their comfort, wealth, and even their lives for the nation’s freedom. But among them, there stands one man who made the ultimate sacrifice not for independence from foreign rule, but for the rights and identity of his own people. That man was Amarajeevi Potti Sriramulu, whose name means “Immortal Being.”
He is remembered as the man who laid down his life for the creation of Andhra Pradesh, the first state in India to be formed on a linguistic basis. His story is one of rare courage, selflessness, and unwavering belief in justice.
Early Life and Background
Potti Sriramulu was born on 16 March 1901 in Madras Presidency, in a small town called Madras (now Chennai). His family belonged to Nellore district in what is now Andhra Pradesh. His parents, Potti Guraviah and Mahalakshmamma, were simple, middle-class people with deep moral and spiritual values.
Sriramulu was the third son in the family. He grew up in a modest home where discipline, devotion, and honesty were highly valued. From a young age, he showed qualities of sensitivity, kindness, and determination. He was known for his discipline and sincerity, qualities that later shaped his role as a social reformer.
He completed his education in Madras and later joined the Indian Railways as an employee. Like many young Indians of his time, he was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence, and service to humanity.
Meeting Mahatma Gandhi and Joining the Freedom Movement
Sriramulu’s life changed forever when he came into contact with Mahatma Gandhi during the Non-Cooperation Movement in the early 1920s. Inspired by Gandhi’s call for self-rule and non-violent resistance, Sriramulu resigned from his comfortable government job in 1921.
He dedicated himself completely to the freedom struggle and became a true follower of Gandhi’s philosophy. He participated actively in the Salt Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience Movement, and other national campaigns. He was also imprisoned several times for his participation in these movements.
What made Sriramulu different from many others was not just his political involvement but his deep spiritual commitment. He practiced Brahmacharya (celibacy), lived a simple life, and spent long hours in prayer and meditation. Gandhi once said that Sriramulu was “a man of great purity and sacrifice,” praising his self-discipline and courage.
A Life of Simplicity and Service
Even after India gained independence in 1947, Sriramulu did not seek any political position or personal gain. He continued to live like a true Gandhian, wearing simple khadi clothes and eating frugally.
He believed that independence was not just political freedom, but also social and spiritual upliftment of the poor and oppressed. He worked for the upliftment of Dalits (Harijans) and other marginalized communities.
Sriramulu undertook several fasts and campaigns to promote temple entry for Dalits, cleanliness, prohibition of alcohol, and eradication of untouchability. His commitment to social reform was so strong that he would often go on hunger strikes to draw attention to injustices.
One of his most notable fasts was for the entry of Dalits into temples in Nellore district, which lasted for several weeks. He ended it only after promises were made by community leaders to allow equal rights in religious places.
The Demand for a Separate Andhra State
After independence, the Madras Presidency (later Madras State) included regions that spoke both Tamil and Telugu. The Telugu-speaking people, who mostly lived in Rayalaseema and Coastal Andhra, felt neglected by the government dominated by Tamil-speaking leaders.
They demanded a separate Andhra state where Telugu language and culture could flourish. The idea was not new — it had been discussed even before independence. The Andhra Mahasabha, formed in 1913, had long been advocating for linguistic recognition.
However, the government of independent India, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, was initially hesitant. The leadership feared that dividing states along linguistic lines might weaken national unity.
Despite growing frustration among Andhras, the central government showed little interest in addressing the issue. That was when Potti Sriramulu decided to take a stand.
The Final Fast: A Sacrifice for Andhra
On 19 October 1952, Potti Sriramulu began a fast-unto-death in Madras (Chennai) to demand the creation of a separate Andhra state. His fast was peaceful, following the Gandhian path of non-violence.
At first, very few people believed he would carry the protest to the end. But as days passed, it became clear that his determination was unshakable.
He refused to take food or even water after the initial days. Many leaders tried to persuade him to stop, including Prime Minister Nehru and local Andhra leaders. But Sriramulu remained firm, saying that he would only end his fast when the government agreed to form Andhra State.
His health weakened day by day. People across Andhra region became deeply moved by his sacrifice. Demonstrations and strikes were organized to support him. Newspapers began covering his story extensively, and soon the entire nation was watching.
After 58 days of fasting, on 15 December 1952, Potti Sriramulu passed away in his small hut in Madras. His death shook the nation.
Aftermath: The Birth of Andhra State
Sriramulu’s death led to massive protests across Andhra region. People were heartbroken and angry. There were strikes, demonstrations, and violent incidents in several towns.
Faced with the growing unrest, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru announced that a separate Andhra State would be created.
On 1 October 1953, the new state of Andhra was officially formed with Kurnool as its capital. Later, in 1956, it was merged with the Telangana region of the erstwhile Hyderabad State to form the present-day Andhra Pradesh.
Thus, Sriramulu’s supreme sacrifice led to a historic change — Andhra became the first linguistic state in independent India. This set a precedent for the reorganization of other Indian states on linguistic lines, shaping the map of modern India.
Legacy and Remembrance
Even decades after his death, Potti Sriramulu’s name continues to be remembered with deep respect and love. He is often referred to as “Amarajeevi”, meaning “the immortal soul,” because his sacrifice immortalized his spirit.
Many institutions, roads, and universities are named after him, including the Potti Sriramulu Telugu University in Hyderabad. Statues of Sriramulu stand proudly in many towns of Andhra Pradesh as a reminder of his courage and devotion.
Every year, on 15 December, people across Andhra Pradesh observe Potti Sriramulu Remembrance Day, paying tribute to his selfless act.
His fast not only brought political change but also demonstrated the power of peaceful protest and moral strength. He showed that true leadership lies not in authority but in sacrifice for a cause greater than oneself.
Sriramulu’s Character and Values
To understand Sriramulu fully, one must look at his personal values. He was a man of unshakable principles.
-
Simplicity: He lived like a saint — with no wealth, no luxury, and no personal ambition.
-
Truthfulness: He believed that truth was the highest form of devotion.
-
Service: He dedicated his entire life to serving others, especially the poor and marginalized.
-
Non-violence: Like Gandhi, he believed that true strength lay in peace, not force.
-
Faith: His deep spiritual connection gave him the courage to face suffering without fear.
Even in his final days, he remained calm and peaceful. He never expressed anger or hatred toward anyone. Instead, he prayed for unity and justice for all.
Influence on Indian Politics
Potti Sriramulu’s sacrifice had a far-reaching impact on Indian politics. His death forced the government to acknowledge the importance of linguistic identity and regional representation.
The formation of Andhra State inspired similar movements in other parts of India — for Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, Karnataka, and many more. This eventually led to the States Reorganization Act of 1956, which reorganized India’s internal boundaries largely along linguistic lines.
Thus, Sriramulu not only gave Andhra its identity but also reshaped the federal structure of India. He proved that peaceful protest, guided by moral conviction, could bring about major political transformation.
Potti Sriramulu and the Spirit of Andhra
For the people of Andhra Pradesh, Sriramulu is not just a historical figure — he is a symbol of pride and unity. His story continues to inspire generations to stand up for justice, equality, and self-respect.
He gave his life not for personal gain or fame, but for the cultural and emotional unity of Telugu people. He showed that love for one’s language and culture can coexist with love for the nation.
His message was clear: “Serve your people, speak the truth, and never give up on justice.”
Lessons from His Life
Potti Sriramulu’s life teaches us several important lessons:
-
Sacrifice for a noble cause is never wasted. His death gave birth to a new state and a new era.
-
Non-violence is a powerful weapon. Even without raising a hand, he moved the conscience of a nation.
-
Faith and determination can overcome any obstacle. Despite opposition, he remained steadfast until the end.
-
True leadership comes from moral strength, not power.
-
Love for one’s language and culture strengthens the nation, not divides it.
A Man Beyond Politics
It is important to remember that Potti Sriramulu was not driven by political ambition. He had no desire for position or recognition. Even after his death, his family lived simply, and he left behind no wealth — only a legacy of purity and sacrifice.
He was more of a spiritual reformer than a political activist. His life was an example of how one person’s conviction can awaken millions.
Conclusion
Potti Sriramulu’s story is not just the story of one man — it is the story of how deep love for justice and identity can change the course of history. His 58-day fast in 1952 was not merely an act of protest but a message to the world about the power of moral courage.
Today, as India continues to grow and evolve, the ideals that Sriramulu lived by — truth, simplicity, equality, and service — remain relevant and essential.
He will always be remembered as the martyr who gave his life for the creation of Andhra Pradesh, and as a shining example of selfless patriotism. His life reminds us that even a single person, guided by truth and faith, can transform the destiny of a nation.
No comments:
Post a Comment