Unveiling the Telangana Thalli Statue: A Tribute to Culture, Aspirations, and Identity

On Monday, Hon’ble Chief Minister Sri A. Revanth Reddy unveiled the grand Telangana Thalli statue at the Secretariat, an event that marked a historic milestone in the cultural and political narrative of Telangana. The massive gathering of people resembled the confluence of the Krishna and Godavari rivers, symbolizing the unity and collective aspirations of Telangana’s populace. Addressing the crowd, the Chief Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to all participants, emphasizing the significance of this program, which will forever remain etched in the annals of Telangana’s history.

The Chief Minister highlighted the universal truth that a mother is the ultimate identity of individuals and nations alike. Telangana Thalli, as the embodiment of Telangana’s culture, traditions, and values, represents this sentiment. Reflecting on the state’s past, he recounted the struggles faced under the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh, where Telangana’s unique identity and culture were marginalized and insulted. After the formation of Telangana state, hopes were high, but the aspirations of the people were overshadowed by a self-serving political leadership that prioritized personal gains over the welfare of the masses.

The decision to install the Telangana Thalli statue in the Secretariat was taken with the collective consensus of the cabinet, reflecting the will of the people. This step is a testimony to the government’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people under a truly democratic regime. In his address, the Chief Minister also touched upon the symbolic correction of a previous injustice: the erstwhile rulers’ decision to use “TS” instead of “TG” for vehicle registrations, which ignored the wishes of Telangana activists. The current government rectified this by officially adopting “TG” to honor the sentiment of those who fought for Telangana’s identity.

The unveiling ceremony was marked by the official declaration of “Jaya Jaya He Telangana” as the state song—a tribute to the anthem that inspired and unified countless during the Telangana movement. The Chief Minister expressed immense pride in felicitating the song’s creator, renowned poet Andesri, whose contributions will forever remain a cherished memory in his heart.

The Chief Minister further pointed out that while various political parties over the years had created different versions of Telangana Thalli statues, none had been officially recognized. This lack of an official representation of Telangana Thalli was addressed by the people’s government, which declared her as the mother of the masses and unveiled a statue that would inspire future generations as a symbol of maternal love and cultural pride.

December 9, the day of the statue’s unveiling, was described as an auspicious and festive occasion. The Chief Minister stressed that the Telangana Thalli statue is more than just a representation of the state’s identity—it is an emblem of hope, progress, and the collective aspirations of the people. He envisioned this day as a celebration of Telangana Thalli every year to ensure that the state never again faces the humiliation and neglect it endured in the past.

The Chief Minister also spoke about the journey of Telangana, moving from a period of crisis and corruption to one of welfare, development, and reconstruction. As part of this vision, the government resolved to recognize and honor the poets and cultural icons who played pivotal roles in the Telangana movement. Poets such as Guda Anjaiah, Gaddar, Bandi Yadagiri, Andesri, Goreti Venkanna, Suddala Ashok Teja, Jayaraju, Pasham Yadagiri, and Ekka Yadagiri Rao, who sacrificed everything for the cause, will be felicitated with a 300-yard house plot, a cash prize of ₹1 crore, and an honorary letter of appreciation. This recognition serves as a tribute to their contributions and a reminder of the cultural richness of Telangana.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed that Telangana’s statehood was not achieved for the benefit of a family or a political party but for the collective dreams and aspirations of its people. The neglect and humiliation endured under united Andhra Pradesh and during the initial years of Telangana’s formation must never be forgotten. The government’s commitment to organizing annual Telangana Thalli celebrations on December 9 reflects a resolve to preserve the state’s identity and ensure that future generations remain inspired by the sacrifices and struggles of their predecessors.

As the Telangana Thalli statue now stands tall in the Secretariat, it serves as a beacon of pride, unity, and cultural renaissance for the people of Telangana. This unveiling is not just the recognition of a statue—it is the celebration of a state’s identity, the honoring of its heroes, and the affirmation of its journey toward progress and inclusivity.