Telangana’s cultural landscape mourns the loss of its legendary poet and balladeer, Gaddar, who passed away at the age of 77 due to health complications. Known for his iconic revolutionary songs during the 1980s and later as a fervent advocate for Telangana statehood, Gaddar’s legacy is etched in the hearts of millions who found inspiration in his passionate music and social justice activism.
Born as Gummadi Vittal Rao in 1949 in Toopran, Medak district, the illustrious folk singer transformed into the revered ‘Gaddar’ as he captured the hearts of countless fans with his soul-stirring compositions and dedication to the causes he held dear. Regarded as an icon in the Telangana region, Gaddar’s songs became anthems of hope and resilience for the marginalized and downtrodden.
Gaddar breathed his last at Apollo Spectra Hospital in the city due to lung and urinary problems and advanced age, according to a statement by the hospital. He had been admitted on July 20 due to severe heart disease and underwent a bypass surgery on August 3, from which he had recovered. However, a history of lung and urinary issues, coupled with advanced age, took a toll on his health, leading to his demise.
The news of Gaddar’s passing brought an outpouring of grief from leaders and fans alike. Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu were among those who expressed their condolences for the iconic artist.
Gaddar’s songs were not just melodies but anthems of resistance, giving voice to the aspirations of the weakest sections and advocating for social justice. His unwavering dedication to the fight for Telangana statehood and his captivating performances endeared him to people from both Telugu states.
The revolutionary balladeer’s contribution to the statehood movement was instrumental, and his powerful song ‘Podustunna Poddu Meeda Nadustunna Kaalama Pooru Telanganama’ became the anthem of the Telangana achievement movement.
Gaddar’s journey from being a former naxalite, leading an underground life in the forests, to joining the mainstream and even voting for the first time in the 2018 Telangana Legislative Assembly polls, speaks volumes about his evolution as a social activist and artist.
Despite facing adversity, Gaddar remained resilient, even after being shot by assailants in the 1990s, with a bullet lodged in his spinal cord until the end. His poetry and fiery activism advocating social justice will forever be a source of inspiration for Telangana and its people.
As fans and leaders commemorate Gaddar’s exceptional contributions to Telangana’s cultural and political landscape, his songs and unwavering dedication to social causes will continue to echo in the hearts of generations to come. The void left by his passing is a reminder of the indelible mark he left on the world of music and the fight for a just and equitable society.
Sources By Agencies
