gurajada apparao biography in english

• Gurazada Apparao

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Gurazada Apparao Profile

• Other Name:
• Gurajada Apparao
• September 21, 1862
• Born / Home Town:
• Yelamanchili
• Profession / Known For:
• Appala Narasamma

Gurazada Apparao Biography

Mahakavi Gurajada Apparao, also known by the titles Kavishekara and Abyudaya kavitha pithamahudu was a Telugu poet and writer of Andhra Pradesh. He was fondly called Gurazada. He was also an influential social reformer. He was the first Telugu writer who is known to incorporate different dialects of spoken language to Telugu literature. He frequently dabbled in poetry, thus creating a new poetic style. His first Telugu play, Kanyasulkam is considered to be the greatest play in the Telugu language. He was also given the title, Mahakavi (Great poet).  The great Telugu patriotic song Desamunu Preminchumanna was written by Apparao. He had a close relationship with Maharajah Pusapati Ananda Gajapati Raju who encouraged arts and education in his princely state.

Based on Gurajada's horoscope, two birthdates of Apparao are considered - Nov.30, 1861 and Sept. 21, 1862, though his descendants prefer the second date. He was born in Rayavaram village near Yelamanchili of Visakhapatnam district. He was born in a Telugu Brahmin family to Venkata Rama Dasu and Kausalyamma. His childhood and adulthood were spent in Vizianagaram and nearby locations. He lost his father during his school days and hence led a poor life.  He was generously taken care of by the then M.R. College Principal, C. Chandrasekhara Sastri who provided him free boarding. He completed his metriculation in 1882 and obtained F.A. in 1884. He started his career as a teacher at M.R. High school.

In 1892, Gurajada's celebrated drama "Kanyasulkam" was staged for the first time and became a huge hit very soon. It was the first Telugu drama expressly written in spoken dialect. "Prataparudreeyam," is another experimental work. In 1896, Gurajada started a magazine, ‘Prakashika’.  He has also served as as personal secretary and advisor to the Maharani of Reeva. Gurajada attended the 1908 Congress session at Chennai. A few of his literary works include – Visvavidyalayalu, Poornamma, Sarangadhara, Mutyala Saralu and Kasulu.

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Gurajada Venkata Apparao also called as ‘Gurajada’ was a social reformer and liberal thinker. He is also considered as the pathfinder of modernism in Telugu literature. Through his works, he strongly criticised social evils such as child marriage and dowry. He was a strong advocate for Women’s education and empowerment. He was posthumously awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 1954. 

Gurajada Venkata Apparao was a remarkable literary figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, acclaimed for his eloquent contribution to liberal ideas in literature. He was born on September 21, 1862, in Rayavaram village of Visakhapatnam District. Gurajada is regarded as a modernist pioneer in Telugu literature. Kanyasulkam is the first Telugu drama written entirely in spoken dialect. Even after a century of publication, the prose play Kanyasulkam, written in the Visakhapatnam dialect, remains popular. In 1892, Gurajada’s acclaimed drama “Kanyasulkam” was staged for the general public. His other works include ‘Kukku’, an English poem (1882), ‘Sarangadhara’ an English poem (1883), ‘Kondubhattiyam’ (1906), ‘Neelagiri paatalu’ (1907), ‘Mutyalasaramulu’, ‘Kasulu'(1910), ‘Bilhaniyam’, ‘Lavana Rajula Kala'(1911), ‘Kanyaka’ (1912), ‘Subhadra'(1913), ‘Dinchu Langaru'(1914) and ‘Langarettumu'(1915).

Through his works, Apparao challenged the authoritarian and orthodox beliefs deeply ingrained in Indian society and culture. As a pioneer of liberal ideas, he advocated for individual freedom, rational thinking, and empowerment of women and marginalised communities. His exposition of social hindrances and his progressive stance on prevalent social issues made him a revolutionary figure in the literary scene of his era. His works testify to art’s capacity to inspire social change and oppose repressive ideologies. 

By emphasising individual freedom and progressive values, Apparao consistently encouraged the conception that individuals have the right to live according to their beliefs and desires, free from social prejudices. His works are often linked with themes such as personal autonomy, the pursuit of happiness, and challenging traditional norms and values. 

Kanyasulkam is the price paid by the bridegroom to the bride’s family in exchange for the girl in marriage. Kanyasulkam was an evil practice that perpetuated treating women as commodities to be bought and sold. It also forced women into unwanted marriages and relationships.  Apparao’s patron, Maharaja Ananda Gajapati of Vizianagaram, was gathering information on child weddings a decade before Gurajada wrote the play, with the purpose of saving the unfortunate segment of womankind from a galling type of social demoralisation. This heinous tradition pricked the heart of Maharaja Ananda Gajapati. As a member of the Madras Legislative Council, Ananda Gajapati proposed a bill to prevent such marriages; nevertheless, the Committee rejected the bill, and he was unable to bring out the necessary legislation to restrict this social scourge.

 Gurajada created Kanyasulkam drama with Maharaja Ananda Gajapati’s encouragement. The drama depicts not just Kanyasulkam practice but also corruption, language reform, widow remarriages, child marriages, and prostitution. He used humour to deal with sensitive topics of that age. He dedicated Kanyasulkam drama to Maharaja Ananda Gajapati, who, as a liberal thinker of his time, was deeply worried about societal problems and evils.

Kanyasulkam drama centres around Lubdhavadhanulu, an elderly, scholarly, thrifty, and widowed man of means. He is manipulated into a remarriage by a shrewd mediator Ramappa Pantulu, who seeks personal gain. Lubdhavadhanulu’s union is arranged with the 10-year-old Subbi, the younger daughter of the determined yet scholarly Agnihotravadhanulu, who intends to marry off his son using the money.

Subbi’s uncle Karataka Sastry devises a plan to save her from this marriage. He disguises his student Mahesam as the bride and himself as the bride’s father. Thwarting the alliance with Subbi, Lubhdhavadhanulu is lured into marriage with the disguised student Mahesam. 

As the story unfolds, Kartaka Sastry’s insistence on a gold ornament during the wedding causes tensions between Lubdhavadhanulu and Ramappa Pantulu. The latter borrows a gold ornament from Madhuravani, his mistress, to stop the cancellation of the marriage. Kartaka Sastry then performs a rushed, one-night marriage and later escapes from the scene with the Kanyasulkam money. He instructs Mahesam to escape from the scene. After Mahesam escapes, Lubdhavadhanulu is accused of murder.  

Amid the confusion, Lubdhavadhanulu is accused of murder when the bride disappears, leading to a legal battle. Madhuravani reveals the truth to the lawyer Soujanya Rao Pantulu, saving Lubdhavadhanulu from a grim fate. The play poignantly exposes the societal pressures, deceptions, and gender-related struggles during its time, weaving a compelling narrative that remains relevant in exploring timeless human complexities. 

Coming to the characters and themes of the play, each character is significant since each reflects a distinct social reality of that period. Agnihotravadhanlu, Venkatesham, Girisham, and Madhuravani are the main characters of the play. Especially characters of Girisam and Madhuravani are the finest characters in Telugu Literature which stand for foolishness, immorality, sarcasm, and incongruity.

 Girisam can be considered as the main protagonist of the play, if not a hero who represents so-called modernity, western ethos, and embodiment of crookedness with his command over English and philosophy. Readers often regard his character as “a pest, an enemy within”, “evil product of the alliance between traditional and modern social orders on the one hand and patriarchy on the other”. Gurajada created this character to shed light on the plight of the young widows at the hands of exploitative men. Posing as a reformer, Girisam abuses young widows and prostitutes. But Girisam, with all his flaws, is a loveable negative character, much like Mr. Jingle of The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens. Probably, Girisam represents the generation of social reformers who have internalised the progressive outlook but not solutions.

Another main character of the play is Madhuravani. Born into the family of Devadasis, she is a young, beautiful, and charming woman of 22 years. As a prostitute, her character depicts issues such as the morality of occupation, righteousness, and courage to speak up for oneself. Her dialogues represent dilemma and skepticism about the social reform activity of that time. She displays intelligence and liberal thinking, and as the play progresses, her actions contribute to conflict resolution. Madhuravani challenges traditional gender roles and expectations. 

Gurajada Venkata Apparao’s legacy as a liberal thinker shines through his unwavering commitment to progressive thought. A literary luminary of his time, he wrote stories that dismantled the chains of convention. Through Kanyasulkam, he ignited a fire of belief in the audience and illuminated a path towards a liberated and equitable society. 

• Rao, V. N. (2011). The indigenous modernity of Gurajada Apparao and Fakir Mohan Senapati. In Palgrave Macmillan US eBooks (pp. 135–152). https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230118348_6
• Srilatha, G., & Siddhartha, P. B. (2018). Language and Culture in Kanyasulkam. International Journal for Research in Engineering Application & Management .

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The Indigenous Modernity of Gurajada Apparao and Fakir Mohan Senapati

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• Velcheru Narayana Rao  

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T here is a broad consensus that India only became “modern” on account of its conquest by the British in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. It is generally agreed that Apparao and Senapati are the first creators of modernity in their respective languages, Telugu and Oriya. Apparao is celebrated as the father of modern literature in Telugu, as Senapati is for Oriya. While the consensus I refer to defines modernity as a specifically colonial modernity, one that was produced by the impact of English on Indian literature and society, I suggest in this chapter that in the two late nineteenth-century works under review, Kanyasulkam (Girls for Sale) and Chha Mana Atha Guntha (Six Acres and a Third) , Apparao and Senapati present an indigenous modernity, distinct from the colonial variety.

• Early Nineteenth Century
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• Child Marriage
• English Education
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Bibliography

Annamayya. God on the Hill: Temple Poems from Tirupati. Translated by Velcheru Narayana Rao and David Dean Shulman. New York: Oxford University Press, 2005.

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Apparao, Gurajada. Girls for Sale: A Play from Colonial India (Kanyasulkam) Translated by Velcheru Narayana Rao. Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 2007.

Narayana Rao, Velcheru, and David Dean Shulman. A Poem at the Right Moment: Remembered Verses from Premodern South India. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1998.

Narayana Rao, Velcheru, David Dean Shulman, and Sanjay Subrahmanyam. Symbols of Substance, Court and State in Nayaka Period Tamilnadu. Delhi: Oxford University Press, 1992.

Narayana Rao, Velcheru, David Dean Shulman, and Sanjay Subrahmanyam. Textures of Time: Writing History in South India. New York: Other Press, 2003.

Senapati, Fakir Mohan. Six Acres and a Third: The Classic Nineteenth-Century Novel about Colonial India. Translated by Rabi Shankar Mishra, Satya P. Mohanty, Jatindra K. Nayak, and Paul St. Pierre. Berkeley: University of California Press, 2005.

Surana, Pingali. The Demon’s Daughter: A Love Story from South India. Translated by Velcheru Narayana Rao and David Dean Shulman. Albany: State University of New York Press, 2006.

Surana, Pingali. The Sound of the Kiss, Or the Story that Must Never Be Told: Kalapurnodayamu Translated by Velcheru Narayana Rao and David Dean Shulman. New York: Columbia University Press, 2002.

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Rao, V.N. (2011). The Indigenous Modernity of Gurajada Apparao and Fakir Mohan Senapati. In: Mohanty, S.P. (eds) Colonialism, Modernity, and Literature. The Future of Minority Studies. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230118348_6

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Author : Gurajada Apparao

Telugu and English writer

Works [ edit ]

• The Cook (1882)
• Sarangadhara ( 1883 )
• Sarangadhara II ( 1883 )
• Songs of The Blue Hills
• Chandrahasa (1883)
• Madras Congress (1908)
• The Emeralds
• Minute of Dissent (1914)

Complete works [ edit ]

• Gurujadalu (2012) ( transcription project )

Some or all works by this author were published before January 1, 1929, and are in the public domain worldwide because the author died at least 100 years ago. Translations or editions published later may be copyrighted. Posthumous works may be copyrighted based on how long they have been published in certain countries and areas.

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• 1915 deaths
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Gurajada Apparao

Gurajada Venkata Apparao (21 September 1862 – 30 November 1915) was an Indian playwright, dramatist, poet, and writer known for his works in Telugu theatre . Rao wrote the play Kanyasulkam in 1892, which is considered as the greatest play in the Telugu language . One of the pioneers of Indian theatre, Rao holds the titles Kavisekhara and Abyudaya Kavitha Pithamahudu . In 1910, Rao scripted the widely known Telugu patriotic song " Desamunu Preminchumanna ".

In 1897, Kanyasulkam was published (by Vavilla Ramaswamy Sastrulu and Sons , Madras) and dedicated to Maharaja Ananda Gajapati. Apparao (along with his brother Syamala Rao) wrote several English poems. His Sarangadhara , published in "Indian Leisure Hour", was well received. The editor of the Calcutta-based "Rees and Ryot", Sambhu Chandra Mukherji read it and re-published it in his magazine. Gundukurti Venkata Ramanayya , editor of the "Indian Leisure Hour", encouraged Apparao greatly during the same period. In 1891, Gurajada was appointed to the post of Epigraphist to the Maharaja of Vizianagaram .

• 1.1 1908 Congress session at Madras
• 1.2 Kanyasulkam
• 2 Personal life
• 3 Retirement and death
• 4.1 Other Literature works

Early life and education

Gurajada was born in a Niyogi brahmin family on 21 September 1862 at his maternal uncle's home in Rayavaram village, near Yelamanchili , Visakhapatnam district . His parents were Venkata Rama Dasu and Kausalyamma. Gurajada lived most of his life in and around Vizianagaram in what was then called as Kalinga Rajyam. He and his father before him were both employed by the princely state of Vizianagaram. Gurajada enjoyed a close relationship with the ruling family during his adult life. He had his initial schooling in Cheepurupalli while his father was working there. His remaining schooling was done at Vizianagaram after his father died. During that time, he was taken care of by the then M.R. College Principal, C. Chandrasekhara Sastri who provided him free lodging and boarding. He completed his matriculation in 1882 and obtained F.A. in 1884. Soon after, he was employed as a teacher in M.R. High School in 1884 with a salary of Rs.25.

In 1887, Gurajada spoke at a Congress Party meeting in Vizianagaram. His daughter Voleti Lakshmi Narasamma was born in 1887. He was simultaneously involved in social work and became a member of the Voluntary Service Corps in Visakhapatnam in 1888. He was elected vice-president of the Ananda Gajapati Debating club in 1889. His son Gurajada Venkata Ramadasu was born in 1890. In 1891 he was promoted to Lecturer (Level III) with a salary of Rs.125. He taught the F.A. and B.A. classes several subjects including English Grammar, Sanskrit Literature, Translation, Greek and Roman Histories. His younger brother Syamala Rao died in 1892 while studying at Madras Law College.

1908 Congress session at Madras

In 1911, he was appointed to the Board of Studies by Madras University . The same year, Gurajada and his friends started the Andhra Sahitya Parishat to promote use of spoken dialects. The next year, he was invited to attend the meeting of the Bangeeya Sahitya Parishat (Bengal Literary Association) at Calcutta.

Kanyasulkam

Kanyasulkam is about the deplorable condition of widows in traditional Brahmin families in the Andhra region of India during the 19th century. [ citation needed ] The play is a highly thought-provoking social drama dealing with social issues relevant to the time. Gurajada Apparao was deeply troubled by the double standards, hypocrisy and social inequalities in the Indian society. The English preface to the first edition of his play states: "Such a scandalous state of things is a disgrace to society, and literature can not have a higher function than to show up such practices and give currency to a high standard of moral ideas. Until reading habits prevail among masses, one must look only to the stage to exert such healthy influence."

Perhaps for the first time in Telugu literary history, a prostitute was given a very positive image so much so that she is shown to better the lives of many people during the course of the play. The play is ageless in the sense that its projection of the Indian mindset and psyche is very relevant and applicable in Indian Society today. The play was, in some ways, ahead of its time and was very bold in criticizing the popular opinions and practices during that era. It frequently jabs at the male-dominated society of India, by bringing to the forefront certain egoistic idiosyncrasies of a typical Indian male, in an unflattering manner. It also questions the practices of witchcraft , sorcery, and their popular usage in medical practice during that period in India.

Personal life

Gurajada married Appala Narasamma in 1885. He continued his studies and graduated with B.A. (Philosophy major and Sanskrit minor) in 1886. For some period during 1886, he worked as Head Clerk in the Deputy Collector's office. On Vijayadasami day, 1887, he joined as a Lecturer (Level IV) in M.R. College with a salary of Rs.100. Around the same time, he was introduced to Maharajah Pusapati Ananda Gajapati Raju (1850–1897).

In 1905, Gurajada's mother died. [ citation needed ] In 1906, his close friend P.T. Srinivasa Iyyangar, principal of Mrs. A.V.N. College, Visakhapatnam started an association to promote curriculum reform in high schools. [ citation needed ] One of the chief aims was to introduce spoken dialects. Along with him, J.A. Yates (1874–1951) -a British civil servant, Gidugu and Gurajada were the principal members. Another friend S. Srinivasa Iyengar (1874–1941) also gave a lot of support and encouragement. Incidentally, this Srinivasa Iyengar was a well-known lawyer and was the President of AICC (All India Congress Committee) annual session at Guwahati in 1926. Gurajada's childhood friend and classmate in Chipurupalli, Gidugu Rammurty (1863–1940) was his school of thought.

Retirement and death

Gurajada retired in 1913, and the then Madras University honored him with the title "Emeritus Fellow". He died on 30 November 1915.

Bibliography

Other literature works.

• The Cook (N/A. An English Poem -1882)
• Sarangadhara (In English, a long poem, (padya kavyam) -1883. {Refer a letter addressed by the Editor of Reis and Rayyet, to Gundukurti Venkataramanaiah, dated:14-8-1883)
• Chandrahasa (N/A. An English long poem, padya kavyam - Authorship and Date uncertain)
• Victoria Prasasti (English poems in praise of Queen Victoria presented to the then Viceroy of India by Maharani of Reeva -1890)
• KanyaSulkamu (Drama, First Ed. -1892, Completely revised second Ed. -1909)
• Review and Introduction in English to Sree rama vijayam and jArji dEva caritaM (both Sanskrit works -1894)
• Edited (1890s) "the Wars of Rajas, Being the History of Hande Anantapuram, Thathacharyula kathalu," both originally collected by C.P. Brown. These works were published after Gurajada's death.
• Review and introduction in English to Harischandra (An English Drama -1897)
• Minugurlu (children's story, perhaps the first in modern style -1903?)
• Kondubhatteeyam (Unfinished humorous drama -1906)
• Neelagiri patalu (Songs describing the beauty of Nilagiri hills where Gurajada recuperated from an illness -1907)
• "Madras Congress" an article by Gurajada, in The Hindu, on the 1908 Congress Party Annual Session at Madras criticizing the lack of focus, integrity and strong will to take on the British rulers, original not traceable, only Avasarala Suryarao's Telugu translation is now available. Part of the above said article, a poem parodying the session,is now available.
• "Canna kalapu cinna buddhulu," essay denouncing the superstitions associated with the appearance of Haley's Comet in 1910.
• Mutyala Saralu and Kasulu (Poems in Gurajada's own meter, matra Chandassu -1910). Many poems and short stories in modern style during the same year. These were perhaps the earliest instances of modern short stories in Telugu. Also published several essays supporting the use of vernacular as formal language. His famous patriotic song " Desamunu Preminchumanna " was written around this time.
• Bilhaneeyam (Unfinished drama, Act I -1910, Act II -1911)
• Lavanaraju kala (Poem -1911)
• Kanyaka (Poem -1912)
• Subhadra (Poem -1913)
• Visvavidyalayalu: samskrita, matru Bhashalu (Report submitted to Madras University -1914)
• Asammati patram (Minute of Dissent -report against the decision of Madras University to retain classical language as the platform for curriculum development -1914)
• Dimcu langaru (Poem -1914)
• Langarettumu (Poem -1915)
• "Sree gurajada appa ravu gari Daireelu," Collected dairies of Gurajada published many decades after Gurajada's death. Editor: Burra Seshagiri Rao
• 'Gurujadalu', complete works of Gurajada (Mahakavi Gurajada Sarvalabhya Rachanala Samkalanam); Editors:Sri Pennepalli Gopalakrishna, Dr Kalidasu Purushotham and Sri Mannem Rayudu, Published by MANASU Foundation, Hyderabad. First Edition: 21 September 2012.
• "Subject For An Extravaganza" An English Poem by Gurajada, published in 'Vijaya' magazine by Ramadasu Pantulu around 1940.
• Telugu poets
• Telugu writers
• Hindu poets
• 1862 births
• 1915 deaths
• Telugu-language writers
• University of Madras alumni
• Indian arts administrators
• Indian theatre directors
• 19th-century Indian dramatists and playwrights
• 20th-century Indian dramatists and playwrights
• Indian male dramatists and playwrights
• Telugu-language dramatists and playwrights
• Writers from Visakhapatnam
• 19th-century Indian male writers
• Dramatists and playwrights from Andhra Pradesh
• Poets from Andhra Pradesh
• 20th-century Indian male writers
• People from Visakhapatnam district
• People from Uttarandhra

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Mahakavi Gurajada Apparao

Happy “Telugu Language Day” once again 🙂

One of my biggest regrets is that I’m not very proficient in my mother tongue – Telugu. Though I can speak and read Telugu, I can hardly write in it (due to lack of practice) and am not well read in Telugu literature. This is because I grew up in Bengaluru and was more exposed to Kannada and Hindi in school.

However, I’m also not as proficient as I’d like to be in Hindi and Kannada as well. It’s really sad that most of us Indians no longer give much importance to learning our own languages and reading our literature. We’re too carried away by English and “foreign languages” and think we can’t gain much by learning our own languages. I invested a lot of time learning French and Italian, and now wish I’d spent my time on one foreign language and one Indian language. It’s indisputable that one must be well versed in English, but that needn’t be at the cost of one’s own language. Humans are naturally multilingual, and we must take advantage of this fact and master as many as we can.

Needless to say it’s very important to preserve our languages and read the rich literature that they offer, because culture and language are inextricably linked and if one disappears, the other will too. We spend a lot of time fighting over language issues when we don’t really need to. We can use link languages like English and Hindi when we meet other Indians whose mother tongues are different from ours, and try to speak in our own native languages when we meet people from our own state – it’s such a simple solution. Like I’ve mentioned in earlier posts, knowing more languages and using them does a lot of good to us intellectually and even health-wise. People who know more languages and are more proficient, turn out to be much better at problem solving and learning new concepts. They’re also less likely to suffer from dementia in old age.

Even if we’re not proficient in our mother tongue, a great way to get acquainted with our culture is to read the English translations of great Indian literary works. If we can read and enjoy Tolstoy in English without even knowing a single word of Russian, we can enjoy the books written in Indian languages as well.

So, I recently did some research on Gurajada Apparao (1862 – 1915) – one of the greatest Telugu writers of all time. He wrote the path-breaking play “Kanyasulkam” in 1892, which is considered the greatest play ever written in Telugu. Being one of the stalwarts in Telugu literature, he holds the titles “Kavisekhara” and “Abyudaya Kavitha Pithamahudu” (both mean “mahakavi” or “great poet”).

Surprisingly, Gurajada was an excellent but little known writer in English as well! He started his writing career in 1882 as a poet writing in English! His English poem “Sarangadhara” written in 1882 makes him one of the first Indo-English writers of India, preceding young Aurobindo, Tagore, and Sarojini Naidu.

The poem was first published in the “Indian Leisure Hour” at Vizianagaram, and subsequently published in Calcutta. He was a pioneering writer, very original and wrote in blank verse even back then. He also wrote the preface to his magnum opus “Kanyasulkam” in English. And like his contemporary poet Gidugu Ramamurthy, he believed that written Telugu must be simplified so that it can reach the masses.

Dr. Srinivas Sistla, who’s a Professor of Art History at the Andhra University in Vishakhapatnam has been doing a wonderful job of translating Telugu literary works into English. He has translated some of Gurajada’s short stories and the long classic poem “Amuktamalyada” written by Sri Krishna Deva Raya in the 16th century into English, among other works. I recently read his translation of the short stories and it was wonderful to get acquainted with a great writer like Gurajada via those stories. If you’re interested in reading translations of Telugu literature or knowing more on the topic, you can look for his books or contact him.

I hope to catch up on more of Telugu literature in the future and on Hindi literature as well. Right now, Hindi is the Indian language that I’m most proficient in and it also has a very vast and rich literature. I would encourage those of you who also have literary tastes to spare some time and explore Indian literature, it’s an immensely pleasurable and rewarding experience 🙂 ———————————

Here’s a very small but beautiful excerpt from Gurajada’s long English poem “Sarangadhara”:

“With tempting hues the lilies blow Upon the lake of Life; But all below, unseen they grow The weeds of sin and strife, The plant of wealth on guile is grown And watered is with sin; The craft of power on blood is built Its sails are puffed with din, O not to me that power and wealth O not to me the world; In muddied streams there life doth flow And vapours dim are curled, Mine be these woods, these hills, these dales Mine be the crystal stream; Like wildbird in these happy vales A happy heart I roam.” ————————————

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gurazada_Apparao https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanyasulkam http://www.thehansindia.com/…/Gurajada-the-English-w…/108524

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Gurazada Apparao

Born in 1862 / Died in 1915 / India / Hindi

Gurazada Apparao poet from India was born in 1862, had 53 years and died in 1915. Poems were written mainly in Hindi language. Dominant movement is other.

Gurazada Venkata Apparao (Telugu: ?????? ?????????) (also often transliterated as 'Gurajada') was a Telugu poet and writer of Andhra Pradesh, India. He wrote the first Telugu play, Kanyasulkam, which is often considered the greatest play in the Telugu language. Gurajada Apparao was an influential social reformer of his age and was lauded as Mahakavi, meaning "the great poet". He frequently dabbled in poetry, and is credited with creating a new style of poetry in the Telugu Language. He also holds the titles Kavishekara and Abyudaya kavitha pithamahudu. Early Life and Education Two dates of birth (according to western calendar) have been calculated based on Gurajada's horoscope, viz., Nov.30, 1861 and Sept. 21, 1862. Apparently, his descendants prefer the second date. Gurajada was born at his maternal uncle's home in Rayavaram village near Yelamanchili Visakhapatnam district. His parents were Venkata Rama Dasu and Kausalyamma, from a Telugu Brahmin family. He had a younger brother by name Syamala Rao. Gurazada's ancestors seem to have moved to Kalinga region from Gurazada village in Krishna district. (hence the family name?) Venkata Rama Dasu worked as a PeshkAr, Revenue Supervisor, and Khiledar in the Vizianagaram Samsthanam. He was well educated and had a good command in Sanskrit. He died in an accident while crossing a small river Utagedda near Vizianagaram. Gurajada lived most of his life in and around Vizianagaram in what was then called as kalinga rajyam. He and his father before him were both employed by the princely state of Vizianagaram. Gurazada enjoyed a close relationship with the ruling family during his adult life. Gurajada had his initial schooling (till age 10) in Cheepurupalli while his father was working there. His remaining schooling was done at Vizianagaram after his father died. During that time, he lived in relative poverty and maintained himself as a varalabbayi. He was generously taken care of by the then M.R. College Principal, C. Chandrasekhara Sastri who provided him free lodging and boarding. He completed his metriculation in 1882 and obtained F.A. in 1884. Soon after, he was employed as a teacher in M.R. High School in 1884 with a salary of Rs.25. Career In 1887, Gurajada spoke at a Congress Party meeting in Vizianagaram. His daughter OlETi lakshmee narasamma was born in 1887. He was simultaneously involved in social work and became a member of the Voluntary Service Corps in Visakhapatnam in 1888. He was elected vice-president of the Ananda Gajapati Debating club in 1889. His son Venkata Ramadasu was born in 1890. In 1891 he was promoted to Lecturer (Level III) with a salary of Rs.125. He taught the F.A. and B.A. classes several subjects including English Grammar, Sanskrit Literature, Translation, Greek and Roman Histories. His younger brother Syamala Rao died in 1892 while studying at Madras Law College. In the previous ten years, Gurajada Appa Rao (along with brother Syamala Rao) had been writing several English poems. His Sarangadhara, published in "Indian Leisure Hour" was well received. The editor of the Culcutta based "Rees and Ryot" Sambhu Chandra Mukherji read it and re-published it in his magazine. He encouraged Gurajada in many ways. While praising Gurajada's talent, he actually encouraged him to write in Telugu. He told Gurajada that however talented he might become in English, it is still a foreign tongue and that he would scale greater heights if he chose to compose in Telugu. Gurajada too was gradually coming to this conclusion. During this period, it is also said that Gurajada was also in correspondence with a British Journalist and author. Gundukurti Venkata Ramanayya, editor of the "Indian Leisure Hour" encouraged Gurazada greatly during the same period. In 1891, Gurajada was appointed to the post of Epigraphist (saMsthAna SAsana pariSOdhaka) to the Maharaja of Vizianagaram. Literary Career In 1892, Gurajada's celebrated drama "Kanyasulkam" was staged for the first time. It became an instant hit. It was the first Telugu drama expressly written in spoken dialect. Prior to that, there were dramas that employed spoken dialect in a few parts of the drama. Vedam Venkata raya Sastri wrote a very popular drama "Prataparudreeyam," where he followed the Sanskrit example in allowing the so-called "lower" characters to use spoken dialect while the so-called "upper" characters used chaste literary dialect. Veeresalimgam Pantulu wrote some dramas, notably "Brahma vivahamu," with some spoken dialect content. This drama was written more as an accessory to his crusade against social evils than for literary enjoyment. The Kanyasulkam was the first to achieve both the aims. And an unparalleled achievement it was! The success of Kanyasulkam encouraged Gurajada to open up and seek out others with similar views. He came in contact with several contemporary luminaries. The rumbling sounds of movement to support spoken dialect as a platform for literary activity were gathering around that time. Gurajada's childhood friend and classmate in Chipurupalli, Gidugu Rammurty (1863-1940) was the leading light of this school of thought. The highly successful staging of Kanyasulkam gave this movement a big boost. It conclusively showed that works that have undisputed literary value and are very popular could be composed in spoken dialects. Even the opponents of the spoken dialect movement such as kaseebhatta brahmayya Sastri had to concede that the kanyASulkaM has a significant literary merit. The success made Gurajada a sort of celebrity. He was being sought after for literary events and for reviewing other literary works. He also wrote the great Telugu patriotic song Desamunu Preminchumanna in 1910. The following lines appears in his poetry Desamunu Preminchumanna - Desamante matti kaadoyi, desamante manushuloyi meaning, A country is not made of land; a country is made of its people. Magazine In 1896, Gurajada tried to establish a magazine by name "prakASika." In 1897, kanyASulkaM was published (by Vavilla Ramaswamy Sastrulu and Sons, Madras) and was dedicated to Maharaja Ananda Gajapati. In the same year, the prince died following a brief illness without leaving a successor. After this, Gurajada was appointed as personal secretary and advisor to the Maharani of Reeva (Appala Kondamamba - sister of Anada Gajapati). Gurajada had his second daughter (third child) PuligeDDa Kondayyamma in 1902. In 1903, a court case was filed challenging the right of Ananda Gajapati's mother (alaka rAjESvari) to adopt an heir to the throne of the principality. Gurajada was put in charge of taking care of all the legal proceedings. The case dragged on for many years and ended in an out of court settlement in 1913. In 1905, Gurajada's mother died. In 1906, his close friend P.T. Srinivasa Iyyangar, principal of Mrs. A.V.N. College, Visakhapatnam started an association to promote curriculum reform in high schools. One of the chief aims was to introduce spoken dialects. Along with him, J.A. Yates (1874-1951) -a British civil servant, Gidugu and Gurajada were the principal members. Another friend S. Srinivasa Iyengar (1874-1941) also gave a lot of support and encouragement. Incidentally, this Srinivasa Iyengar was a well-known lawyer and was the President of AICC (All India Congress Committee) annual session at Guahati in 1926. 1908 Congress session at Madras Gurajada attended the 1908 Congress session at Madras. Gurajada developed some health problems and took some time off to convalesce at the Nilgiri hills. While taking rest, he got around to preparing the second edition of kanyasulakam and published it in 1909. This edition was completely revised and greatly expanded compared to the original version. It is this edition that made the drama a truly outstanding work of art. Each character developed a life of its own and they all came together in an unforgettable comedy. The next year, he participated in a community meal at Berhampur where people of various classes and castes shared the same food and ate together. Around this time, Gurajada started writing very prolifically and composed several poems, songs and short stories. These works are among the most famous in Telugu literature. In 1911, he was appointed to the Board of Studies by Madras University. The same year, Gurajada and his friends started the Andhra Sahitya Parishat to promote the use of spoken dialects. The next year, he was invited to attend the meeting of the bangeeya sAhitya pariShat (Bengal Literary Association) at Culcutta. The same year, his second patron, Maharani of Reeva died. Retirement Gurajada took retirement in 1913 with a pension of Rs.140. Madras University honoured him by making him a "Fellow." His health started deteriorating slowly. He constructed a new house worth Rs. 139 and moved into it in 1915. He was left with nothing but a rupee. After a few months of illness and poverty, Gurajada died in 1915. Outline of Kanyasulkam Kanyasulkam is about the deplorable condition of widows in traditional Brahmin families in the Andhra region of India during the 19th century. The play is a highly thought-provoking social drama dealing with social issues relevant to the time. Gurajada Apparao was deeply troubled by the double standards, hypocrisy and social inequalities in the Indian society. The English preface to the first edition of his play states: "Such a scandalous state of things is a disgrace to society, and literature can not have a higher function than to show up such practices and give currency to a high standard of moral ideas. Until reading habits prevail among masses, one must look only to the stage to exert such healthy influence." Perhaps for the first time in Telugu literary history, a prostitute was given a very positive image so much so that she is shown to better the lives of many people during the course of the play. The play is ageless in the sense that its projection of the Indian mindset and psyche is very relevant and applicable in Indian Society today. The play was in some ways way ahead of its time and was very bold in criticizing the popular opinions and practices during that era. It frequently jabs at the male-dominated society of India, by bringing to the forefront certain egoistic idiosyncrasies of a typical Indian male, in an unflattering manner. It also questions the practices of witchcraft, sorcery, and their popular usage in medical practice during that period in India. Personal Life He was married to Appala Narasamma in 1885. In the mean time, he continued his studies and graduated with B.A. (Philosophy major and Sanskrit minor) in 1886. For some period during 1886, he worked as Head Clerk in the Deputy Collector's office. On Vijayadasami day, 1887, he joined as a Lecturer (Level IV) in M.R. College with a salary of Rs.100. Around the same time, he was introduced to Maharajah Pusapati Ananda Gajapati Raju (1850-1897). This prince had a significant role in encouraging the arts and education in these parts of the country. Gurajada gradually developed a cordial relationship with the prince. This association led to his involvement with the princely family for a long time. Legacy Gurajada Apparao is popularly known in Andhra pradesh as Gurazada. He is the most popular poet among Telugu literature. The townhall is constructed on his name at Vijayanagaram and Vijag by the Govt of A.P. Almost every popular town has a street named after Gurazada. Statues of Gurajada are seen in Hyderabad, Vizag, Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, Vijayanagaram and many more towns. His poem 'desamunu preminchumanna' is the most popular patriotic song in the Telugu language. ..

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Gurajada Apparao Biography

Posted by | Vishnu Das on | November 30, 2023

Date of Birth

Gurajada Venkata Apparao (1862-1915) was a distinguished Telugu poet and writer hailing from Andhra Pradesh, India. His literary legacy is deeply rooted in the Telugu language, and he is celebrated for his monumental work, the play “Kanyasulkam,” penned in 1892, which is revered as one of the greatest literary creations in Telugu literature. Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Gurajada Apparao was a trailblazing social reformer of his era, earning him the accolade of “Mahakavi,” signifying “the great poet.”

Gurajada Apparao Biography Age, Family, Career and More

His contributions to Indian theatre were groundbreaking, and he held esteemed titles such as “Kavisekhara” and “Abyudaya Kavitha Pithamahudu.”Gurajada Venkata Apparao was not confined to a single genre, as he frequently ventured into the realm of poetry. He is credited with pioneering a distinct style of poetry in the Telugu language that left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. In 1897, “Kanyasulkam” was published by Vavilla Ramaswamy Sastrulu and Sons in Madras, and it was dedicated to Maharaja Ananda Gajapati. His educational journey took him to Maharaja’s College (MR COLLEGE) in Vizianagaram, often referred to as VIDYANAGARAM of ANDHRA, where he meticulously crafted some of his most magnificent and enduring literary works. Apparao, in collaboration with his brother Syamala Rao, also ventured into English poetry. His poem “Desamante Mattikadoy – Desamante Manushuloy” has resonated deeply with every Telugu individual, regardless of their literacy level. The profound impact of Gurajada’s poetry extended far and wide. The editor of the Calcutta-based “Rees and Ryot,” Sambhu Chandra Mukherji, was so moved by his work that he republished it in his magazine. Gurajada’s poetry was characterized by its simplicity and clarity, which made it accessible to a wide audience. His verses possessed a unique vibrancy and were like crystal-clear streams of thought.

Early life and education

Gurajada Venkata Apparao, a luminary of his time, was born into a Niyogi Brahmin family on the 21st of September, 1862. His birth took place at the residence of his maternal uncle, located in the picturesque Rayavaram village, near Yelamanchili, in the Anakapalli district. His esteemed parents, Venkata Rama Dasu and Kausalyamma, hailed from a Niyogi Telugu Brahmin lineage, firmly rooted in tradition and culture. The backdrop of Gurajada’s life predominantly unfolded in and around Vizianagaram, which was known as Kalinga Rajyam during his era. He shared his upbringing with a younger brother named Syamala Rao. Gurajada’s initial tryst with education commenced in Cheepurupalli while his father was engaged in employment there. Interestingly, the roots of Gurajada’s ancestors can be traced back to the Kalinga region, where they migrated from Gurazada village in the Krishna district. Following the passing of his father, Gurajada continued his education in Vizianagaram. He displayed remarkable prowess in his studies, particularly in Sanskrit. In 1882, he successfully completed his matriculation, and in 1884, he attained the esteemed distinction of obtaining an F.A. (First Arts) degree.

1908 Congress session at Madras

Gurajada Venkata Apparao, a luminary of his time, was born into a Niyogi Brahmin family on the 21st of September, 1862. His birth took place at the residence of his maternal uncle, located in the picturesque Rayavaram village, near Yelamanchili, in the Anakapalli district. His esteemed parents, Venkata Rama Dasu and Kausalyamma, hailed from a Niyogi Telugu Brahmin lineage, firmly rooted in tradition and culture.

Kanyasulkam

Over the course of the preceding decade, Gurajada Appa Rao, in collaboration with his brother Syamala Rao, had been diligently crafting a collection of English poems. This creative endeavor reflected their literary aspirations and their desire to express themselves in a language that transcended linguistic boundaries. In the subsequent year, Gurajada received a notable invitation that marked a significant milestone in his literary journey. He was invited to participate in a meeting of the Bangeeya Sahitya Parishat, also known as the Bengal Literary Association, held in the vibrant city of Calcutta. At this gathering, Gurajada’s work, “Sarangadhara,” which had been published in the esteemed periodical “Indian Leisure Hour,” garnered considerable acclaim and recognition. However, Gurajada’s most celebrated literary contribution was yet to come.

His magnum opus, “Kanyasulkam,” is a poignant exploration of the deplorable condition of widows within traditional Brahmin families in the Andhra region of India during the 19th century. Notably, “Kanyasulkam” stands out as the first Telugu drama to be expressly written in the spoken dialect, a pioneering feat in Telugu literature. The play transcends the realms of entertainment and delves into thought-provoking social issues that were highly relevant to the era in which it was penned. Before “Kanyasulkam,” there had been occasional instances of spoken dialect usage in certain parts of Telugu dramas. Veeresalimgam Pantulu, for instance, had incorporated some spoken dialect content in his works, most notably in “Brahma vivahamu.” However, “Kanyasulkam” marked a watershed moment as it seamlessly blended the spoken dialect with the dramatic narrative, achieving both linguistic authenticity and societal relevance.

Personal life

In the year 1885, Gurajada Venkata Apparao embarked on a new chapter in his personal life by entering into the sacred institution of marriage. He wed Appala Narasamma, marking the beginning of a shared journey filled with mutual support and companionship. Even as he embraced married life, Gurajada’s passion for learning remained undiminished. In 1886, he achieved another milestone by graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Philosophy and minoring in Sanskrit. His commitment to education and his multifaceted talents were becoming increasingly evident. During a period in 1886, Gurajada briefly served as the Head Clerk in the Deputy Collector’s office, gaining valuable administrative experience. However, his heart remained firmly rooted in the world of academia and literature. On the auspicious occasion of Vijayadasami in 1887, Gurajada commenced a new chapter in his career by assuming the role of Lecturer (Level IV) at M.R. College. This appointment came with a monthly salary of Rs. 100, reflecting his dedication and expertise in the field of education.

In 1913, Gurajada Venkata Apparao made the decision to retire, concluding his illustrious career with a well-earned pension of Rs. 140. His retirement marked the culmination of a lifetime dedicated to education, literature, and societal reform.

Bibliography

Other literature works.

• The Cook (N/A. An English Poem -1882)
• Sarangadhara (In English, a long poem, (padya kavyam) -1883. {Refer to a letter addressed by the Editor of Reis and Rayyet, to Gundukurti Venkataramanaiah, dated:14-8-1883)
• Chandrahasa (N/A. An English long poem, padya kavyam – Authorship and Date uncertain)
• Victoria Prasasti (English poems in praise of Queen Victoria presented to the then Viceroy of India by Maharani of Reeva -1890)
• KanyaSulkamu (Drama, First Ed. -1892, Completely revised second Ed. -1909)
• Review and Introduction in English to Sree Rama Vijayam and jArji dEva caritaM (both Sanskrit works -1894)
• Edited (1890s) “The Wars of Rajas, Being the History of Hande Anantapuram, Thathacharyula kathalu,” both originally collected by C.P. Brown. These works were published after Gurajada’s death.
• Review and introduction in English to Harischandra (An English Drama -1897)
• Minugurlu (children’s story, perhaps the first in a modern style -1903?)
• Kondubhatteeyam (Unfinished humorous drama -1906)
• Neelagiri patalu (Songs describing the beauty of Nilagiri hills where Gurajada recuperated from an illness -1907)
• Gurajada Venkata Apparao, in his article titled “Madras Congress,” published in The Hindu, offered a critical perspective on the proceedings of the 1908 Congress Party Annual Session held in Madras. In his analysis, Gurajada scrutinized the perceived shortcomings within the Congress Party, highlighting issues related to focus, integrity, and the lack of a strong resolve to confront British colonial rule.
• “Canna kalapu cinna buddhulu,” an essay denouncing the superstitions associated with the appearance of Halley’s Comet in 1910.
• In 1910, Gurajada Venkata Apparao made significant contributions to Telugu literature through his poetic works “Mutyala Saralu” and “Kasulu.” What set these poems apart was Gurajada’s use of his unique meter, known as “matra Chandassu,” which added a distinctive and innovative touch to his verses.
• Bilhaneeyam (Unfinished drama, Act I -1910, Act II -1911)
• Lavanaraju kala (Poem -1911)
• Kanyaka (Poem -1912)
• Subhadra (Poem -1913)
• Visvavidyalayalu: Sanskrit, matru Bhashalu (Report submitted to Madras University -1914)
• Asammati patram (Minute of Dissent -report against the decision of Madras University to retain classical language as the platform for curriculum development -1914)
• Dimcu langaru (Poem -1914)
• Langarettumu (Poem -1915)
• “Sree gurajada appa ravu gari Daireelu,” Collected dairies of Gurajada published many decades after Gurajada’s death. Editor: Burra Seshagiri Rao
• The comprehensive collection of Gurajada’s literary works, titled ‘Gurujadalu,’ was compiled and edited by Sri Pennepalli Gopalakrishna, Dr. Kalidasu Purushotham, and Sri Mannem Rayudu. This anthology was published by the MANASU Foundation, based in Hyderabad, and was first released on September 21, 2012.
• “Subject For An Extravaganza” is an English poem authored by Gurajada Venkata Apparao. This poem was published in the ‘Vijaya’ magazine, which was edited and published by Ramadasu Pantulu, around the year 1940. Gurajada’s foray into English poetry showcased his versatility as a writer, allowing him to reach a wider audience with his literary talents.

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Gurjada Apparao's Poems on Mahatma Gandhi

Mahakavi Sri Gurajada Apparao (21 September 1862 – 30 November 1915) was a well-known Telugu poet, writer, and social reformer from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. In his renowned patriotic song, "Desamunu Preminchumanna" (1910), he stated, "A country is not formed of territory; a country is made of its people." Mahakavi Gurajada Apparao was an excellent writer, playwright, and, above all, a brilliant humanist. He was a predecessor to Mahatma Gandhi in conducting a fight against the societal evil of "untouchability" via his writings.

In his poem "Gandhi Charitra," he highlighted Mahatma Gandhi's amazing personality. The song was also included in the movie Maala Pilla. "What if wearing a scratch of fabric by our Gandhi?" he begins his writing. He describes Gandhi as a Godly figure, who provides a path to the people of India towards a struggle which shall provide freedom and human rights to each citizen of the nation. The faith people had in the leadership of Gandhi is depicted in this poem, as he was accepted as the national leader and the face of resistance. Many works like these pay tribute to his selfless contribution to the nation.

Gurajada Apparao

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

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• Email . +54 356 945234

13 March 2012

Gurajada apparao - biography.

Thank you so much.Very elaborative and useful for general,govt exams purpose.Please keep up the good work

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Gurajada Apparao

Gurajada Venkata Apparao (21 September 1862 – 30 November 1915) was an Indian playwright, dramatist, poet, and writer known for his works in Telugu theatre . [1] [2] Rao wrote the play Kanyasulkam in 1892, which is considered as the greatest play in the Telugu language . [3] [4] One of the pioneers of Indian theatre, Rao holds the titles Kavisekhara and Abyudaya Kavitha Pithamahudu . [5] [6] [7] [8] In 1910, Rao scripted the widely known Telugu patriotic song " Desamunu Preminchumanna ". [9] [10]

In 1897, Kanyasulkam was published (by Vavilla Ramaswamy Sastrulu and Sons , Madras) and dedicated to Maharaja Ananda Gajapati. Apparao (along with his brother Syamala Rao) wrote several English poems. His epic Sarangadhara , published in "Indian Leisure Hour", was well received. [11] The editor of the Calcutta-based "Rees and Ryot", Sambhu Chandra Mukherji read it and re-published it in his magazine. Gundukurti Venkata Ramanayya , editor of the "Indian Leisure Hour", encouraged Apparao greatly during the same period. In 1891, Gurajada was appointed to the post of Epigraphist to the Maharaja of Vizianagaram . [9] [10]

Early life and education

Gurajada was born in a Niyogi Brahmin family [12] on 21 September 1862 at his maternal uncle's home in Rayavaram village, near Yelamanchili , Anakapalli district . [9] [10] His parents were Venkata Rama Dasu and Kausalyamma. Gurajada lived most of his life in and around Vizianagaram in what was then called as Kalinga Rajyam. He and his father before him were both employed by the princely state of Vizianagaram. Gurajada enjoyed a close relationship with the ruling family during his adult life. [9] [10] He had his initial schooling in Cheepurupalli while his father was working there. His remaining schooling was done at Vizianagaram after his father died. During that time, he was taken care of by the then M.R. College Principal, C. Chandrasekhara Sastri who provided him free lodging and boarding. He completed his matriculation in 1882 and obtained F.A. in 1884. Soon after, he was employed as a teacher in M.R. High School in 1884 with a salary of Rs.25. [9] [10]

In 1887, Gurajada spoke at a Congress Party meeting in Vizianagaram. His daughter Voleti Lakshmi Narasamma was born in 1887. He was simultaneously involved in social work and became a member of the Voluntary Service Corps in Visakhapatnam in 1888. He was elected vice-president of the Ananda Gajapati Debating club in 1889. His son Gurajada Venkata Ramadasu was born in 1890. In 1891 he was promoted to Lecturer (Level III) with a salary of Rs.125. He taught the F.A. and B.A. classes several subjects including English Grammar, Sanskrit Literature, Translation, Greek and Roman Histories. His younger brother Syamala Rao died in 1892 while studying at Madras Law College. [9] [10]

1908 Congress session at Madras

In 1911, he was appointed to the Board of Studies by Madras University . The same year, Gurajada and his friends started the Andhra Sahitya Parishat to promote use of spoken dialects. The next year, he was invited to attend the meeting of the Bangeeya Sahitya Parishat (Bengal Literary Association) at Calcutta. [9] [10]

Kanyasulkam

Kanyasulkam is about the deplorable condition of widows in traditional Brahmin families in the Andhra region of India during the 19th century. [ citation needed ] The play is a highly thought-provoking social drama dealing with social issues relevant to the time. Gurajada Apparao was deeply troubled by the double standards, hypocrisy and social inequalities in the Indian society. The English preface to the first edition of his play states: "Such a scandalous state of things is a disgrace to society, and literature can not have a higher function than to show up such practices and give currency to a high standard of moral ideas. [9] [10] Until reading habits prevail among masses, one must look only to the stage to exert such healthy influence."

Perhaps for the first time in Telugu literary history, a prostitute was given a very positive image so much so that she is shown to better the lives of many people during the course of the play. The play is ageless in the sense that its projection of the Indian mindset and psyche is very relevant and applicable in Indian Society today. The play was, in some ways, ahead of its time and was very bold in criticizing the popular opinions and practices during that era. It frequently jabs at the male-dominated society of India, by bringing to the forefront certain egoistic idiosyncrasies of a typical Indian male, in an unflattering manner. It also questions the practices of witchcraft , sorcery, and their popular usage in medical practice during that period in India. [9] [10]

Personal life

Gurajada married Appala Narasamma in 1885. He continued his studies and graduated with B.A. (Philosophy major and Sanskrit minor) in 1886. For some period during 1886, he worked as Head Clerk in the Deputy Collector's office. On Vijayadasami day, 1887, he joined as a Lecturer (Level IV) in M.R. College with a salary of Rs.100. Around the same time, he was introduced to Maharajah Pusapati Ananda Gajapati Raju (1850–1897). [9] [10]

In 1905, Gurajada's mother died. [ citation needed ] In 1906, his close friend P.T. Srinivasa Iyyangar, principal of Mrs. A.V.N. College, Visakhapatnam started an association to promote curriculum reform in high schools. [ citation needed ] One of the chief aims was to introduce spoken dialects. Along with him, J.A. Yates (1874–1951) -a British civil servant, Gidugu and Gurajada were the principal members. Another friend S. Srinivasa Iyengar (1874–1941) also gave a lot of support and encouragement. Incidentally, this Srinivasa Iyengar was a well-known lawyer and was the President of AICC (All India Congress Committee) annual session at Guwahati in 1926. Gurajada's childhood friend and classmate in Chipurupalli, Gidugu Rammurty (1863–1940) was his school of thought. [9] [10]

Retirement and death

Gurajada retired in 1913, and the then Madras University honored him with the title "Emeritus Fellow". [9] [10] He died on 30 November 1915. [9] [10]

Bibliography

Other literature works.

• The Cook (N/A. An English Poem -1882)
• Sarangadhara (In English, a long poem, (padya kavyam) -1883. {Refer a letter addressed by the Editor of Reis and Rayyet, to Gundukurti Venkataramanaiah, dated:14-8-1883)
• Chandrahasa (N/A. An English long poem, padya kavyam - Authorship and Date uncertain)
• Victoria Prasasti (English poems in praise of Queen Victoria presented to the then Viceroy of India by Maharani of Reeva -1890)
• KanyaSulkamu (Drama, First Ed. -1892, Completely revised second Ed. -1909)
• Review and Introduction in English to Sree rama vijayam and jArji dEva caritaM (both Sanskrit works -1894)
• Edited (1890s) "the Wars of Rajas, Being the History of Hande Anantapuram, Thathacharyula kathalu," both originally collected by C.P. Brown. These works were published after Gurajada's death.
• Review and introduction in English to Harischandra (An English Drama -1897)
• Minugurlu (children's story, perhaps the first in modern style -1903?)
• Kondubhatteeyam (Unfinished humorous drama -1906)
• Neelagiri patalu (Songs describing the beauty of Nilagiri hills where Gurajada recuperated from an illness -1907)
• "Madras Congress" an article by Gurajada, in The Hindu, on the 1908 Congress Party Annual Session at Madras criticizing the lack of focus, integrity and strong will to take on the British rulers, original not traceable, only Avasarala Suryarao's Telugu translation is now available. Part of the above said article, a poem parodying the session,is now available.
• "Canna kalapu cinna buddhulu," essay denouncing the superstitions associated with the appearance of Halley's Comet in 1910.
• Mutyala Saralu and Kasulu (Poems in Gurajada's own meter, matra Chandassu -1910). Many poems and short stories in modern style during the same year. These were perhaps the earliest instances of modern short stories in Telugu. Also published several essays supporting the use of vernacular as formal language. His famous patriotic song " Desamunu Preminchumanna " was written around this time.
• Bilhaneeyam (Unfinished drama, Act I -1910, Act II -1911)
• Lavanaraju kala (Poem -1911)
• Kanyaka (Poem -1912)
• Subhadra (Poem -1913)
• Visvavidyalayalu: samskrita, matru Bhashalu (Report submitted to Madras University -1914)
• Asammati patram (Minute of Dissent -report against the decision of Madras University to retain classical language as the platform for curriculum development -1914)
• Dimcu langaru (Poem -1914)
• Langarettumu (Poem -1915)
• "Sree gurajada appa ravu gari Daireelu," Collected dairies of Gurajada published many decades after Gurajada's death. Editor: Burra Seshagiri Rao
• 'Gurujadalu', complete works of Gurajada (Mahakavi Gurajada Sarvalabhya Rachanala Samkalanam); Editors:Sri Pennepalli Gopalakrishna, Dr Kalidasu Purushotham and Sri Mannem Rayudu, Published by MANASU Foundation, Hyderabad. First Edition: 21 September 2012.
• "Subject For An Extravaganza" An English Poem by Gurajada, published in 'Vijaya' magazine by Ramadasu Pantulu around 1940.
• ^ Sarma, G. v Prasada (22 September 2016). "Gurajada's patriotic song set to go places" – via The Hindu.
• ^ Gopal, B. Madhu (26 December 2012). "Time we perpetuated Gurajada memory" – via The Hindu.
• ^ Apparao, Gurujada Venkata (1 January 2002). Kanyasulkam . Book Review Literacy Trust. ISBN   9788188434008 – via Google Books.
• ^ "Forbes India Magazine - The next stage: The evolving face of theatre in India" .
• ^ "Gurajada remembered" .
• ^ 20th Century Telugu Luminaries, Potti Sriramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad, 2005
• ^ "ಗುರಜಾಡ ವೆಂಕಟ ಅಪ್ಪಾರಾವ್ – ಚಿಲುಮೆ" .
• ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Rau, M. Chalapathi (1 January 1976). "Gurazada Commemorative Volume" . South Delhi Andhra Association – via Google Books.
• ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Suryanarayana, Peri (1 January 1968). "The life and greatness of Sri Gurajada Venkata Apparao" . Vignana Sahiti Publications – via Google Books.
• ^ Staff Reporter (3 September 2012). "Call to propagate works of Gurajada Appa Rao" – via The Hindu.
• ^ Gandhi, Rajmohan. "A Malayalam novel and a Telugu play went deep into South India's caste question in the 19th century" . Scroll.in . Retrieved 16 January 2022 .