Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday paid rich tributes to Andhra Kesari Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu, the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, on his birth anniversary.
Governor Abdul Nazeer said Prakasam Panthulu, who served as Premier of the Madras Presidency and the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, was a fearless freedom fighter, a distinguished nationalist and a visionary leader who made significant contributions to the freedom struggle.
His courage, patriotism and selfless service to the nation remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations, the Governor said.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said in his message that qualities like simplicity, honesty, determination, discipline, and the courage to confront anyone for the principles he believed in were the hallmarks of Prakasam Pantulu.
“Andhra Kesari lived and breathed public welfare, a symbol of the daring and valor of the Telugu people. On the occasion of Prakasam Pantulu’s birth anniversary, let us remember that great soul’s distinguished personality and his courageous struggles and pay our homage to his memory,” said Naidu.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also paid tribute to Prakasam Pantulu, saying courage was his weapon and public service was his goal.
“Standing as a symbol of the self-respect of the Telugu people, Andhra Kesari Sri Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu garu’s courage shown for the nation’s independence, the sacrifices made for the people, and his unwavering commitment to values remain forever inspiring,” he said.
“As Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency and the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, his life dedicated to public service serves as an ideal for us. On the occasion of Andhra Kesari garu’s birth anniversary, I offer solemn tributes,” Pawan Kalyan said in a social media post.
Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy termed Praksam Pantulu a great soul who fought fearlessly, even risking his life, for the nation’s independence. He said that the late leader stands as a symbol of the courage of the Telugu people.
As the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, he laid strong foundations for public welfare and the state’s progress; his life remains an eternal inspiration for generations, YS Jagan said.
(IANS)
