Potti Sreeramulu

Potti Sreeramulu

Potti Sreeramulu (16 March 1901 – 16 December 1952) was an Indian revolutionary and freedom fighter known for his role in achieving the formation of the state of Andhra Pradesh through his hunger strike. He is revered for his dedication and sacrifice for the cause of linguistic states in India.

Early Life

Potti Sreeramulu was born on 16 March 1901 in Madras Presidency, British India, in a small village called Padamatapalli in the present-day Andhra Pradesh. He belonged to a Telugu-speaking family and was deeply influenced by the Indian independence movement.

Education and Career

Sreeramulu completed his education in Madras (now Chennai) and later worked as an engineer in the Great Indian Peninsular Railway. However, he left his job to join the freedom struggle under the influence of Mahatma Gandhi.

Role in Indian Independence Movement

Sreeramulu participated actively in the Salt March and the Quit India Movement. He was imprisoned multiple times for his involvement in the freedom struggle. His commitment to the cause of Indian independence was unwavering, and he was known for his simplicity and dedication.

Hunger Strike for Andhra Pradesh

After India gained independence in 1947, Sreeramulu focused on the demand for a separate state for Telugu-speaking people. He believed that linguistic states would ensure better governance and cultural preservation. On 19 October 1952, he began a hunger strike demanding the creation of a separate state of Andhra from the Madras State.

Despite appeals from various leaders, Sreeramulu continued his fast unto death. After 58 days of fasting, he passed away on 16 December 1952. His death sparked widespread protests and demonstrations, leading to the formation of the state of Andhra Pradesh on 1 October 1953.

Legacy

Potti Sreeramulu is remembered as a martyr who laid down his life for the cause of linguistic states. His sacrifice is commemorated in Andhra Pradesh, and several institutions and landmarks are named after him, including the Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University.

See Also

• Andhra Pradesh
• Indian independence movement
• Linguistic states
• Mahatma Gandhi
• Salt March
• Quit India Movement