CM Chandrababu Unveils 58-Foot Statue of Potti Sriramulu’s on his 125th Birth Anniversary

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday hailed the sacrifice of Potti Sriramulu , who laid down his life for the self-respect of Telugu people and the creation of a separate state. On the occasion of his 125th birth anniversary , the Chief Minister unveiled a 58-foot bronze statue at Shakamuru Park near Guntur.

Speaking at the event, Naidu said Sriramulu’s 58-day hunger strike for the formation of a Telugu-speaking state remains a historic milestone. He noted that Sriramulu’s struggle and sacrifice helped Telugu people secure a distinct political identity.

Recalling history, the Chief Minister said Sriramulu began his fast in 1952 , demanding the separation of Telugu-speaking regions from the then Madras State to form a separate Andhra State. His martyrdom later paved the way for the reorganisation of states across India on linguistic lines .

Naidu observed that although the region later witnessed several political and geographical changes, including the bifurcation into Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the memorial symbolises the unity and pride of the Telugu community.

The memorial project has been developed on 6.8 acres at Shakamuru Park at an estimated cost of ₹150 crore . Built under the supervision of the Potti Sriramulu Memorial Trust, the statue was completed in a record six months. Officials said 26 tonnes of bronze and 42 tonnes of iron were used in its construction, while the 58-foot height commemorates Sriramulu’s 58-day fast.

With the first phase completed, the project is expected to emerge as a major tourist attraction in the Amaravati region.

The Chief Minister also announced that the second phase of the project will begin next year. Plans include a museum, photo gallery and a modern auditorium showcasing Sriramulu’s life and legacy. A skill development centre will also be set up to create employment opportunities for youth.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Minister Nara Lokesh, BJP Andhra Pradesh president PVN Madhav and several ministers and public representatives attended the programme.