Nation will remember role of Telugus in freedom struggle: Kishan Reddy

Union Minister for Tourism and Culture G Kishan Reddy has said that Telugus have sacrificed their lives during the countrywide freedom struggle. Speaking as the chief guest at the Independence Day celebrations organised by the Andhra Association in Delhi on Monday, he said the country would remember the sacrifices of the Telugus in the freedom movement.

The minister mentioned the way people, government and private entities voluntarily took part in the Har Ghar Tiranga programme observed as part of the Azadi Ka Amruth Mahotsav celebrations marking the occasion of 75 years of independence. "As the country has a great history of freedom movement, the Andhra Association too has its own history. The association was born out of ideas of great personalities like Prof. N G Ranga, Dr Ananthasayanam Iyyangar, former President Dr Varahagiri Venkata Giri, Bhogaraju Pattabhi Ramaiah, Kasinadhuni Nageswara Rao in 1935. "It is a matter of pride for every Telugu person to have such an association", he added.

"Formation of the association for Telugus in the national capital and promoting Telugu language, culture, traditions and taking up service activities by the association need appreciation", said Reddy. He appreciated the association's efforts in Delhi while working for promotion of Telugu language, festivals, customs and traditions. The Union minister said great Telugu freedom fighters like Alluri Sitharama Raju, Uyyalavada Narasimha Reddy, NG Ranga, Gadicherla Harisarvotham Rao, Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu and others have fought for the country's freedom without bothering about their lives. Reddy said the current generations should emulate the spirit of the sacrifices of these freedom fighters and march into future.