Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao paid homage ahead of his centenary birth anniversary

In a political landscape where idealism often surrenders to ambition, Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao (1926-1997) stands out as a icon of honesty, simplicity and unwavering commitment to Gandhian values. Fondly known as ‘Diviseema Gandhi’, the former Minister transformed politics into a platform for service and compassion.

“His father Mandali Venkat Ramayya, a teacher and a social thinker, laid the foundation for his moral values and intellectual depth by creating the right environment at home,” said R. Mallikarjuna Rao, Director, Department of Language and Culture.

To pay tributes to the ‘messiah of the poor’ on the occasion of his birth centenary on August 4, Mr. Rao painted a portrait of Krishna Rao, who once aspired to become a teacher, but the call of the freedom movement led him into public life.

Recalling his student days, Mr. Rao said that by the time he reached high school in Avanigadda, young Krishna Rao had started reading Gandhi’s publications like ‘Young India’ and ‘Harijan’, sowing the seeds of a lifelong mission for rural upliftment and social reform.

In 1975, he played a pivotal role in organising the first World Telugu Conference, connecting Telugus across the globe. His vision also led to the establishment of the International Telugu Centre in Hyderabad, reinforcing the global relevance of Telugu language and culture.

“Perhaps the most defining moment of his life came in the aftermath of the 1977 Diviseema cyclone, a catastrophic disaster that devastated the region,” recalls Mr. Rao, adding that Venkata Krishna Rao, then a Cabinet Minister, resigned from his post to lead relief operations on the ground. “Disregarding protocol, he waded through flood-hit villages, consoled survivors, fed the hungry, and comforted grieving families. His selfless actions earned him eternal reverence and the title Diviseema Gandhi.”

To honour his legacy, centenary celebrations of Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao are being held at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada on August 4. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will be the chief guest.