In the grand story of India’s struggle for freedom, a few names shine not only for their patriotism but also for their uncompromising courage and integrity. Among them stands Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu, the man known as the “Lion of Andhra.”
Born in 1872 and passing away in 1957, Prakasam’s life was a powerful blend of law, leadership, and love for the people. He rose from humble beginnings to become a lawyer in Madras, a fearless freedom fighter, and eventually, the first Chief Minister of Andhra State. His journey is not only a tale of political success but also of deep moral conviction and personal sacrifice.
Early Life: Humble Beginnings of a Future Hero
Tanguturi Prakasam was born on 23 August 1872 in Kanuparthi village, near Ongole in the present-day Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh. His parents, Rangaiah and Subbamma, lived a simple life. His father died when Prakasam was young, leaving the family in financial hardship.
But his mother, a strong and devoted woman, inspired him to study and rise above difficulties. She believed education was the only way out of poverty and encouraged her son to learn with dedication.
As a boy, Prakasam was curious, honest, and bold. He questioned injustice even in small matters and showed a natural sense of leadership among his classmates. His early years in Ongole and Rajahmundry laid the foundation for his later courage and compassion.
Education and Journey to England
After completing his basic education in India, Prakasam aspired to study law. His dream was to become a barrister, like many educated Indians of the time who sought legal training in England.
With great determination and limited means, he sailed to London. Life in a foreign land was not easy. Money was scarce, and the cultural differences were wide. But Prakasam never gave up. He worked hard, studied at Middle Temple, and successfully became a barrister-at-law.
His years in England were also important in shaping his political thinking. He met many young Indians who were discussing freedom, justice, and the future of India. Those conversations planted in him a deep desire to serve his country and fight colonial injustice.
A Successful Lawyer in Madras
Upon returning to India, Prakasam started his legal practice in Madras (now Chennai). His intelligence, deep knowledge of law, and persuasive speaking made him one of the most respected lawyers in the Madras High Court.
He earned fame not only for winning cases but also for his honesty and fairness. Many people sought his help because they believed he would never cheat or compromise truth for money.
Prakasam could have easily lived a comfortable and luxurious life as a successful barrister. But he soon realized that law alone could not solve the problems of his people. Poverty, illiteracy, and oppression were everywhere under British rule. His conscience pushed him toward politics and national service.
The Call of the Nation
The early 1900s were a time of great awakening in India. The freedom movement was spreading from Bengal to Punjab, from Bombay to Madras. Inspired by leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi, and Annie Besant, many educated Indians began to fight for their nation’s rights.
Prakasam joined the Indian National Congress, which became his lifelong political family. His fiery speeches and passionate advocacy quickly made him a prominent leader in South India.
He firmly believed that India must not just demand small reforms but complete independence. His speeches in the Madras Legislature and public meetings reflected his deep conviction and fearless patriotism.
The Simon Commission Protest: A Moment of Immortality
One of the most unforgettable moments in Tanguturi Prakasam’s life — and in the history of India’s freedom struggle — came in 1928, during the Simon Commission protests.
The British government had appointed the Simon Commission to propose constitutional reforms for India. Shockingly, not a single Indian was included in it. This insult united Indians across all regions and parties.
When the Commission visited Madras, people took to the streets shouting, “Simon Go Back!” The British police, threatened by the massive crowd, opened fire to disperse the protesters.
In that tense moment, Tanguturi Prakasam stepped forward. Unarmed and unafraid, he walked toward the British soldiers, opened his shirt, and bared his chest, shouting:
“If you wish to shoot, shoot me first!”
The soldiers were stunned. His courage silenced the guns. That single act of bravery made Prakasam a national hero overnight. From then on, he was called “Andhra Kesari”, the Lion of Andhra — a title he carried with pride till the end of his life.
A True Disciple of Gandhi
Though Prakasam was known for his fiery courage, he was also a true Gandhian at heart. He believed in non-violence, truth, and service to the people.
He wore khadi, spun his own yarn, and promoted self-reliance. He gave up his successful legal practice during the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920 to fully dedicate himself to the national cause.
He also worked for social reforms. He fought against caste discrimination, untouchability, and gender inequality. He believed that India could not become truly free unless all its people were treated equally.
Prakasam saw politics as an instrument of moral service, not personal gain. He lived by Gandhi’s words:
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Role in Freedom Movements
Over the years, Prakasam took part in many major movements — from the Non-Cooperation Movement to the Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement.
He was arrested several times and spent months in prison for his participation in peaceful protests. But imprisonment never broke his spirit. Instead, it strengthened his resolve to fight for justice.
His leadership was especially influential in South India, where he inspired countless students, workers, and farmers to join the national struggle. He often reminded people that freedom was not a gift, but something to be earned through sacrifice.
Leadership in Madras Presidency
In 1946, before India achieved independence, provincial elections were held, and Prakasam was chosen as the Chief Minister of Madras Presidency. This was a historic moment, as the region was vast and diverse, including present-day Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Karnataka and Kerala.
As Chief Minister, Prakasam focused on education, rural development, and social justice. He wanted to make government transparent and responsive to people’s needs.
However, his uncompromising honesty sometimes led to clashes with other politicians and bureaucrats. He refused to bend the rules or favor anyone unjustly. Though his tenure was short, his administration was marked by integrity, simplicity, and a people-first approach.
Even his critics admitted that Prakasam was a man who could not be bought or influenced — a rare quality in politics.
Champion of Andhra’s Identity
After India’s independence in 1947, the next big issue for Telugu-speaking people was the demand for a separate Andhra State. The Madras Presidency was dominated by Tamil-speaking areas, and many Telugu people felt their language and culture were being sidelined.
Prakasam strongly supported the movement for a separate Andhra region, but he always insisted that the demand should be achieved peacefully and democratically.
The tragic death of Potti Sriramulu in 1952, after fasting for 56 days demanding Andhra State, deeply moved the entire nation. It forced the central government to finally create Andhra State on 1 October 1953.
Given his seniority and reputation, Tanguturi Prakasam was chosen as the first Chief Minister of Andhra State.
He led the new state during its initial, challenging phase — setting up administration, building infrastructure, and promoting unity among Telugu-speaking people. Though his time in office was short, he laid the foundation for what would later become Andhra Pradesh.
A Man of Principles and Simplicity
Throughout his life, Tanguturi Prakasam lived by the values of honesty, humility, and public service. Despite holding powerful positions, he never sought personal comfort or luxury.
He often walked to work, lived in a modest house, and spoke directly to people without guards or protocol. He donated most of his wealth for public causes, especially education and welfare.
He once said:
“A leader must live like the poorest of his people; only then will he understand their pain.”
Even after leaving office, he remained active in public life — guiding younger leaders and promoting Gandhian values. Until his final days, he remained a man of strong convictions and unshaken faith in truth.
Final Years and Passing Away
Tanguturi Prakasam passed away on 20 May 1957, at the age of 84. His death was mourned across India. Thousands gathered to pay their respects to the man who had lived his life for others.
His funeral was simple, just as he wished. No grand ceremonies — only prayers, tributes, and tears of gratitude from the people he served so faithfully.
Prakasam left behind no riches, no property, and no political dynasty — only a legacy of courage, character, and commitment that continues to inspire generations.
Legacy: The Lion Lives On
Today, Tanguturi Prakasam’s name is permanently etched in the heart of Andhra Pradesh and India. His memory is celebrated in many ways:
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Prakasam District in Andhra Pradesh is named in his honor.
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The Prakasam Barrage on the Krishna River in Vijayawada stands as a symbol of his contribution to regional development.
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His statues in cities like Vijayawada, Ongole, and Hyderabad remind people of his bravery.
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His birthday, 23 August, is celebrated in schools and offices as a day of remembrance and inspiration.
But his greatest monument is not in stone or concrete — it lives in the values he upheld. Every act of courage, every honest leader, and every citizen who stands for truth continues his legacy.
Personality and Values
Prakasam Pantulu was a man of contradictions that made him complete:
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He was fiery yet gentle,
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brave yet humble,
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intellectual yet deeply emotional.
He could argue in court with the sharpness of a lawyer and then talk to a farmer with the simplicity of a friend. He treated everyone equally, whether rich or poor.
His speeches often blended logic with passion, inspiring both the educated elite and the common people. He valued education, truth, and discipline, and believed that the greatest strength of a nation was the character of its citizens.
What We Learn from His Life
Tanguturi Prakasam’s story carries timeless lessons for modern India:
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Courage changes history. One man’s bravery can inspire millions to overcome fear.
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Integrity is leadership. True leaders serve people, not themselves.
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Education empowers. Knowledge and awareness are the foundations of freedom.
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Unity in diversity. Cultural and linguistic differences should strengthen, not divide us.
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Simple living, high thinking. Moral strength is greater than material wealth.
In today’s fast-changing world, where politics often loses its moral compass, Prakasam’s life reminds us what it truly means to be a public servant.
Conclusion: The Roar That Never Fades
Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu’s life was not about personal gain or power — it was about truth, courage, and selfless service. From a poor village boy to the first Chief Minister of Andhra, his journey reflected the strength of Indian spirit.
He stood bare-chested before British guns, proving that one man’s moral power can silence an empire. He governed with honesty when corruption could have been easy. He lived and died as a humble servant of the people.
Even decades after his death, his story continues to inspire every Indian who dreams of a just and fearless society.
The Lion of Andhra may have left this world, but his roar for freedom, truth, and justice still echoes across the land.
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