Andhra Pradesh: Playwright Gurajada Remembered

Kurnool: District collector P. Ranjit Basha recollected the contributions of playwright and social reformer Gurajada Appa Rao, describing him as a pioneering personality who awakened societal consciousness through his literature. Speaking at a programme in the city on Saturday commemorating the 162nd birth anniversary of Gurajada, he highlighted how Appa Rao championed the vernacular language, standing with Gidugu Ramamurthy against the use of classical language and rhyme in poetry, emphasising the importance of connecting with the common people.

He said his play Kanyashulkam, written more than 130 years ago, has gained worldwide recognition. The collector also noted that Gurajada’s writings and patriotic songs played a significant role in addressing societal ills. Joint collector Dr B. Navya added that Gurajada was not only a playwright but also a social reformer and sociologist, whose works were powerful tools against societal evils. She emphasised that it is the responsibility of everyone to celebrate his birth anniversary and remember his contributions to society.

Assistant collector Challa Kalyani, DRO Chiranjeevi, deputy director of district information office Jayamma and other district officials participated in the programme.