AP Govt Announces ₹30,000 Monthly Honorarium for Gurajada’s Great-Grandson
The Andhra Pradesh government has sanctioned a monthly honourarium of ₹30,000 to Gurajada Venkateswara Prasad, great-grandson of eminent Telugu writer Gurajada Apparao, in recognition of his family’s efforts to preserve the writer’s house near Vizianagaram Fort.
Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad issued orders to this effect, stating that the Andhra Pradesh State Creativity and Cultural Commission would sanction the amount to Mr Prasad for his lifetime.
The move is intended to support the continued upkeep of the house associated with Gurajada Apparao, one of the most influential figures in modern Telugu literature. Known for his contributions to Telugu poetry, drama and social reform, Gurajada had a close association with Vizianagaram.
Speaking to the media, Mr Prasad and his wife, G. Indira, thanked the state government for recognising the family’s efforts to protect and maintain the historic house.
Ms Indira said the family had been doing its best to safeguard the property and preserve its connection with Gurajada Apparao’s life and legacy. She said government officials had also responded promptly whenever the family raised issues related to repairs, renovation and other maintenance work with senior officials of the Vizianagaram Municipal Corporation.
She said regular maintenance was important to ensure that the house remained preserved for future generations.
Ms Indira also urged the government to expedite the construction of an auditorium at the site. She said funds for the proposed facility had been allocated a few months ago and expressed hope that work would begin soon.
Once completed, the auditorium could provide space for cultural programmes and other activities highlighting Gurajada Apparao’s literary legacy. The family said such facilities would further help preserve and promote his contribution to Telugu literature and social reform.
The lifetime honourarium is also a recognition of the family’s long-standing efforts to safeguard Gurajada Apparao’s house and keep his legacy alive in Vizianagaram.