Intellectuals from different sections of Telangana society have strongly opposed the state government’s decision to install a statue of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in front of the newly constructed Telangana Secretariat. In an open letter to AICC leader Rahul Gandhi, prominent personalities including G. Haragopal, Tankasala Ashok, Allam Narayana, Goreti Venkanna and Mallepally Laxmaiah have expressed their concerns over the move, which they feel is an insult to the cultural identity of Telangana.
The letter highlights that the statue of Telangana Talli, which currently stands in front of the Secretariat, is a powerful symbol of the culture, heritage and pride of the people of Telangana. The intellectuals argue that replacing it with the statue of Rajiv Gandhi would not only undermine these values but would also erase the identity and spirit of the people who fought for statehood at immense sacrifice.
The signatories recall that the concept of Telangana Talli, which was revived during the second phase (Mali Dasha) of the statehood movement, has deep historical roots. They stress that poets like Dasarathi and Ravella Venkatarama Rao paid tribute to Telangana Talli in their works and that the design of the statue was the result of intense discussions among intellectuals, poets and literary figures.
The letter also criticises the proposed installation of the statue of Rajiv Gandhi, noting that while he is respected, he does not have the same cultural and emotional significance for the Telugu people as Telangana Talli. The intellectuals suggest that the statue of Rajiv Gandhi could be installed at a more appropriate location that does not clash with the cultural sentiments of the people of Telangana.
“We therefore request the government to keep the statue of Telangana Talli in its rightful place and honour the cultural symbols that represent the true spirit of our people. We also wish to remind you of your promise during the elections to protect the cultural aspirations of the people of Telangana,” the letter said.
