Hyderabad, January 28: Gummadi V. Vennela, Chairperson of Telangana Cultural Saradhi and daughter of Gaddar, has strongly condemned union minister Bandi Sanjay’s recent remarks concerning her father. Speaking on behalf of artists across India and the Telangana Cultural Saradhi, she expressed her disapproval of Sanjay’s statements.
Vennela emphasised that Gaddar did not dedicate his life for positions, money, or awards. Instead, he fought for Telangana, the oppressed, the poor, marginalised communities, and women. She highlighted that, despite carrying bullets in his body, Gaddar continued his struggle for the people. She asserted that attempts to belittle him would not diminish his stature, comparing such criticism to spitting at the sun. Vennela lauded Gaddar as a historic figure and a people’s poet, whose legacy cannot be defined by awards.
Questioning the awarding process, Vennela asked whether Padma awards are granted by the central government or the BJP party. She pointed out that there are guidelines to recognise individuals from various fields who have served the nation. She questioned the appropriateness of Sanjay’s comments about awarding party workers involved in killings. Vennela urged the central government to clarify whether Padma awards are given only to individuals selected by ruling parties or also to common people who have rendered distinguished services to society and the nation.
These statements come in response to Bandi Sanjay’s comments following the announcement of Padma award selections, where he criticised the inclusion of Gaddar.
