Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to right sidebar Skip to footer

Author: hellohyderabad

Veteran Actor Kota Srinivasa Rao Passes Away

Hyderabad, July 13, 2025 – Renowned veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away early Sunday morning at the age of 83, following a prolonged illness. He breathed his last at his residence in Filmnagar, Hyderabad, after battling age-related health complications over the past few weeks.

Kota Srinivasa Rao was a towering figure in Indian cinema, particularly in the Telugu film industry. With a career spanning more than four decades, he acted in over 750 films across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada languages. Known for his distinctive voice, commanding screen presence, and mastery over dialects, Kota seamlessly portrayed a wide range of roles, from villains and comedians to strong supporting characters.

Born on July 10, 1942, in Kanakipadu, Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, Kota began his journey as a stage actor before making his film debut in 1978 with Pranam Khareedu, which also starred a young Chiranjeevi. Initially known for character and comic roles, he rose to prominence as a formidable villain with the 1985 film Pratighatana. His performance was widely appreciated, and he was soon recognized as an actor who redefined the antagonist role in Telugu cinema.

Some of his most memorable films include:

  • Aha! Naa Pellanta
  • Yamudiki Mogudu
  • Khaidi No. 786
  • Shiva
  • Bobbili Raja
  • Yamaleela
  • Santosham
  • Bommarillu
  • Athadu
  • Race Gurram

Kota was also known for his successful on-screen partnership with comedian Babu Mohan. The duo featured together in about 60 films, and their combination was often seen as a guarantee of box office success in the 1990s.

Beyond cinema, Kota had a brief but impactful political career. He served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Vijayawada East constituency representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from 1999 to 2004.

In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian cinema, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015, along with several Nandi Awards from the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

Tragedy struck his personal life in 2010 when his only son, Kota Venkata Anjaneya Prasad, died in a road accident in Hyderabad. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

News of his passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from the film fraternity, political leaders, and fans across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Tributes continue to pour in, celebrating his illustrious career and unmatched legacy in Indian cinema.

Kota Srinivasa Rao will forever be remembered as a versatile performer, a master of dialogue delivery, and a pillar of South Indian cinema.

May his soul rest in peace.

Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations – Hanuman Chalisa Parayanam Successfully Conducted-12-July-2025

Jai Sairam!

With the divine blessings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations – Tarnaka Samithi joyfully conducted a spiritually uplifting event on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

🙏 108 Times Hanuman Chalisa Parayanam @ Marri Krishna Function Hall, Tarnaka

📌 Date: 12-07-2025
📍 Venue: Marri Krishna Function Hall, Tarnaka
🕘 Time: From 6:00 AM onwards

The event saw an enthusiastic gathering of devotees who participated in the chanting of Hanuman Chalisa 108 times. The entire atmosphere was filled with devotion, divine vibrations, and spiritual energy.

The soulful recitation created a powerful spiritual environment, leaving all participants deeply moved and connected to Lord Hanuman’s grace.

💐 Our Heartfelt Gratitude:

We extend our sincere thanks to all the volunteers, organizers, and devotees who made this event a grand success through their selfless service and heartfelt participation.

We look forward to organizing more such spiritual gatherings in the future with your continued support and participation.

Jai Sairam 🙏

Mana Santha -Mahilaa Abhivruddhi Neti Avasaram-July 5th & 6th-2025

🎉 Mana Santha 2025 – Mahilaa Abhivruddhi Neti Avasaram – Women Empowerment is the Need of the Hour concluded on a powerful and positive note!
💐 The event stood as a vibrant platform to honor the strength, creativity, and resilience of women.
🛍️ With over [insert number] stalls featuring handmade products, organic goods, handlooms, and food, the marketplace was alive with color and purpose.
🙏 Heartfelt thanks to the stallholders, visitors, and our enthusiastic volunteers – your energy made all the difference.
🎨 Today’s creative workshops like Seed Ball Making, Art & Crafts, and Eco-friendly Activities sparked imagination and awareness.
🌟 A special note of gratitude to Sri Krishna Reddy Garu for being the driving force behind this successful initiative.
🤝 The festival became a space for connection – where entrepreneurs shared, collaborated, and grew together.
📸 The smiles, the stories, the sales – every moment captured the spirit of community and empowerment.
💪 Mana Santha – A Festival with Purpose proudly carried forward the mission of Vocal for Local.
🌿 It wasn’t just a mela – it was a movement toward sustainable, inclusive, and women-led growth.
🌈 We are deeply grateful for the support of our community and partners who believed in this vision.
📢 From the entire Mana Santha team – Thank You! Let’s carry this energy forward and meet again, stronger than ever!

🌿 12th Mulam Santha – 14-June-2025

Hosted by Grama Bharathi & CSR Memorial Foundation

📅 Date: 14th June 2025 (Second Saturday)
📍 Venue: Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

🌱 What is Mulam Santha?

Mulam Santha is a unique, monthly rural market celebrating India’s roots — promoting sustainable living, natural farming, and traditional livelihoods.

It is a space where farmers, artisans, handloom weavers, millet entrepreneurs, khadi promoters, and eco-conscious producers directly meet consumers.

🛍️ What to Expect This Time

✨ Highlights of the Santha:

  • Organic Millets: laddus, murukkus, papads, traditional snacks
  • Pure Cold-Pressed Oils (Ganuga)
  • Bio-Enzymes, Panchagavya, Herbal Remedies
  • Cow dung & Neem-based natural products
  • Clay pots & eco-friendly terracotta jewelry
  • Khadi & Handloom Sarees, “Gollabhama” Sarees, Natural Fabrics
  • Desi Seeds, Medicinal Plants & Gardening Tools
  • Handcrafted jute bags & household essentials
  • Literature, folklore, cultural roots & craft communities

🎯 A true village-to-home market experience.

🍛 Special Farm-to-Table Lunch – ₹150 Only!

Enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal made with organic desi rice, rooted in tradition and packed with goodness.

🙌 Gratitude & Acknowledgement

We are proud to celebrate the 1st successful anniversary of Mulam Santha!
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible Badruka Volunteers for your continued support and effort.

🧭 Join the Movement – Go Back to the Roots

Bring your friends and family!
Reconnect with nature, tradition, and healthy living through this one-of-a-kind experience.

Revanth Reddy Launches Bandaru Dattatreya’s Autobiography, Hails Him as ‘Ajata Shatruvu’

Hyderabad | June 2025 — Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Saturday released the autobiography of Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, titled ‘Prajala Kathe – Naa Atma Katha’, in a grand ceremony held at Shilpakala Vedika in Hyderabad. The event turned into a celebration of a life dedicated to public service, drawing admiration from across the political spectrum.

The launch was graced by several national dignitaries including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, former President Ramnath Kovind, and former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu. The presence of such senior leaders underscored the immense respect Dattatreya commands across party lines.

In his address, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy described Bandaru Dattatreya as an “Ajata Shatruvu” — a person without enemies — comparing him to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his inclusive and compassionate political journey. “Dattatreya garu is an embodiment of simplicity, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service. He is truly a role model for aspiring leaders,” said Reddy.

Highlighting Dattatreya’s journey from a modest upbringing in Gowliguda, a small neighborhood in Hyderabad, to occupying the constitutional post of Governor, Revanth Reddy lauded his ability to remain connected with the common people despite his high office.

Speakers throughout the event praised the autobiography for offering not only personal insights into Dattatreya’s life but also a broader narrative of India’s political evolution over the decades. The book is seen as an inspiration for future generations to understand the values of service, integrity, and leadership grounded in public welfare.

‘Prajala Kathe – Naa Atma Katha’ is now available for readers and is expected to serve as both a political memoir and a guide for those interested in public life.

Source : TELANGANA TODAY

Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand Honoured with International Anti-Narcotics Award at World Police Summit 2025Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand Honoured with International Anti-Narcotics Award at World Police Summit 2025Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand Honoured with International Anti-Narcotics Award at World Police Summit 2025Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand Honoured with International Anti-Narcotics Award at World Police Summit 2025

Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand Honoured with International Anti-Narcotics Award at World Police Summit 2025

Hyderabad | June 2025 — In a proud moment for the Hyderabad Police and the city at large, Commissioner CV Anand has been honoured with the prestigious “Excellence in Anti-Narcotics Award” at the World Police Summit (WPS) 2025, held in Dubai from May 13 to 16. Representing the Hyderabad Narcotics Enforcement Wing (H-NEW), Anand received the award at a grand ceremony hosted at the Dubai Police Officers Club.

The international recognition was conferred by the World Police Summit Committee in acknowledgment of H-NEW’s relentless efforts in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse within Hyderabad. Over the past three years, H-NEW has implemented a series of proactive operations, public awareness campaigns, and educational outreach programs aimed at tackling the growing menace of narcotics, particularly among the youth.

Commissioner CV Anand expressed his deep appreciation for the honour, stating, “This award is not just a recognition of my role, but a tribute to the dedication, innovation, and tireless efforts of the entire H-NEW team. Competing against some of the most advanced police forces from 138 countries and emerging with this accolade is a moment of immense pride for Hyderabad and for India.”

H-NEW has been at the forefront of a multi-pronged strategy, which includes:

  • Strategic crackdowns on drug traffickers and peddlers
  • Formation of anti-drug committees in educational institutions
  • Intensive public outreach and awareness drives
  • Rehabilitation support for addicts and their families

During a panel discussion at the summit, Anand shed light on the complex drug challenges India faces, particularly in the post-Covid era. He spoke about the evolving methods of narcotics smuggling into the country, the networks and gangs involved, and the critical importance of early intervention in schools and colleges. He also emphasized the role of technology and community involvement in ensuring long-term drug control.

This accolade marks a significant milestone for Hyderabad’s police force and sets a new benchmark for anti-narcotics operations in India. The recognition is expected to boost further collaboration between international law enforcement bodies and Hyderabad’s narcotics enforcement initiatives.

As Hyderabad celebrates this global recognition, the Commissioner reiterated his commitment to making the city a drug-free zone through continued vigilance, innovation, and community partnership.

Source : TELANGANA TODAY

Pochampally Ikkat: A Tradition in Transition

Pochampally: The Looms of Legacy and the Future of Ikkat Weaving
Nestled in the heart of Telangana, the town of Pochampally is world-renowned for its mesmerizing Ikkat patterns and exquisite handwoven sarees. Often dubbed as the “Silk City of India”, Pochampally’s weavers blend tradition and precision in a complex textile art that has earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and global recognition.

The Step-by-Step Process of Making a Pochampally Ikkat Saree

  1. Collection and Preparation of Yarn
    The process begins with sourcing cotton or silk yarns, typically procured from mills in nearby towns like Hyderabad or Warangal.

Degumming and Bleaching: For silk, the raw yarn is degummed and bleached.

Drying: The cleaned yarn is dried before dyeing begins.

  1. Designing and Marking the Pattern
    Pochampally’s magic lies in its “tie and dye” resist technique. Patterns are designed on graph paper, and each color and section is meticulously calculated.
  2. Tying the Yarn (Resist Dyeing)
    This step, called “Bandhana”, involves:

Tying sections of yarn tightly with threads to prevent dye penetration.

These areas remain undyed during the dyeing process, creating intricate patterns.

  1. Dyeing the Yarn
    Yarns are dipped in dye vats (using natural or synthetic dyes).

The process is repeated for multiple colors, drying and retying in between.

This phase demands immense precision, as the final pattern must align perfectly when woven.

  1. Warping and Loom Preparation
    Once dyed, yarns are set up on the warp beam (longitudinal threads). The loom is then calibrated manually to match the design specifications.
  2. Weaving the Fabric
    Using pit looms or frame looms, weavers interlace the dyed yarns into complex, colorful patterns.

The weft (horizontal threads) and warp (vertical threads) need to match precisely.

Each saree can take 7–10 days depending on the complexity of the design.

Challenges Faced by Pochampally Weavers
Despite the beauty and demand of their craft, Pochampally weavers face multiple hardships:

  1. Declining Profits
    Middlemen often take the lion’s share of profits.

Fluctuations in raw material prices (especially silk) impact earnings.

  1. Lack of Market Access
    Limited reach to national and international markets.

Dependence on government exhibitions or state-run emporiums.

  1. Labour-Intensive Process
    The intricate dyeing and weaving process is time-consuming and physically taxing.

Younger generations are migrating to urban jobs, leading to a decline in skilled artisans.

  1. High Cost of Modernization
    Power looms and automatic dyeing machines are costly.

Many weavers cannot afford to invest without external help.

Financial Support: Loans and Schemes
The government and cooperative societies have introduced various aids:

  1. Weaver Credit Card (WCC) Scheme
    Offers loans up to ₹2 lakhs at subsidized interest.

Helps in purchasing raw materials, looms, and other necessities.

  1. Mudra Loans
    Offered under Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana.

Enables micro-financing for artisan-led enterprises.

  1. Cooperative Societies and DWCRA Groups
    Help in bulk procurement, marketing, and fair pricing.

Provide weavers with basic wages and shares in profits.

  1. Handloom Weavers Comprehensive Welfare Scheme
    Covers insurance, health, and pension benefits for registered weavers.

Innovative Ideas to Boost Productivity and Sustainability
To keep the legacy of Pochampally alive, a blend of traditional skill and modern innovation is key.

  1. Digital Design and CAD Tools
    Use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools for pattern-making.

Helps weavers replicate and innovate faster with fewer errors.

  1. Solar-Powered Looms
    Reduces dependency on erratic power supply.

Cuts energy costs and boosts working hours.

  1. E-commerce and Direct-to-Customer Models
    Platforms like Amazon Karigar, GoCoop, and personal websites enable weavers to reach global buyers.

Eliminates middlemen and improves profit margins.

  1. Skill Development and Youth Training
    Government and NGOs offer training in dyeing, modern weaving techniques, and digital literacy.

Attracts younger generation to continue the craft.

  1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
    Adoption of natural dyes, organic cotton, and water-recycling units for dyeing processes.

Appeals to environmentally conscious consumers globally.

Conclusion: Weaving a Brighter Future
Pochampally’s Ikkat is more than just fabric—it’s a tapestry of culture, patience, and artistry. With appropriate financial backing, modern infrastructure, and greater visibility, the skilled hands of Pochampally can continue weaving not just sarees but also a stronger future for their community.

The Legacy Weaver: Biography of Ramesh Ramanadham

Ramesh Ramanadham

Crafts Revivalist | Textile Designer | Natural Fibres Expert | Handloom Advocate

Ramesh Ramanadham is a celebrated Indian designer, crafts revivalist, and subject matter expert with over 37 years of pioneering work in handlooms, handicrafts, natural fibres, and natural dyes. Deeply rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, his mission is to revive, restore, and sustain India’s rich artisanal legacy, while creating sustainable livelihoods and socially connected ecosystems for craftsmen.

Core Contributions & Expertise

  • Spearheading the revival of naturally coloured cottons to uplift Khadi, restoring its traditional processes and equipment.
  • Revived the 400-year-old handmade paper industry in Aurangabad with INTACH.
  • Leading the holistic revival of Cheriyal Dolls, an ancient craft of Telangana, focusing on eco-friendly materials, story-based narratives, and sustainable market strategies.
  • Engaged with over 36,900 individuals through seminars and workshops, spreading awareness about India’s cultural heritage in crafts.
  • Empanelled designer with NIMSME, and a regular speaker at national and international platforms.

Pioneering Product Innovations

Ramesh holds the distinction of being the first in India (specifically combined Andhra Pradesh in the 1990s) to commercially develop several unique fabrics and applications, including:

  • Cotton-Jute, Cotton-Flax, Cotton-Linen blends in Single and Double IKKAT
  • Kalamkari prints on Madras checks, brushed fabrics, upholstery, and knitted fabric
  • Introduction of eco-textiles like vegetable-dyed handlooms, Katari Wool, Cotton-Lycra, Cotton-Wool blends, and others.
  • Extensive experimentation with natural fibres like Ramie, Banana, Pineapple, Mesta, Sisal, and wild grasses.

Social Impact

  • Conducts monthly workshops on languishing crafts and natural dye techniques.
  • Supported over 2,800 artisan families across India during the pandemic with ration and safety kits.
  • Worked with student and artisan communities across NIFT, NID, IITs, and craft clusters nationwide.

Early Journey & Legacy

Beginning his journey in 1987 with flavoured potato chips, Ramesh pivoted to handlooms after witnessing weavers’ distress. He co-founded Leela Handlooms, later transitioning to R S Krafts in 2015 — a tribute to his great-grandfather, Ramanadham Ramalingam Sr., who was honoured by King George V at the British Empire Exhibition in 1924 for his weaving prowess and community work (including building the Ramanadham Canal in Kandukur, Prakasam District).

Recognition & Awards

  • Vishisht Seva Puraskar on the Centenary of Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy
  • Honoured by the Telangana Government in 2022 as “Eminent Personality in Handlooms and Handicrafts”
  • Recipient of the IDEA Asia Award (2020)

Global & Collaborative Engagement

Worked with leading international brands such as Guess Jeans, Diesel, Camel, Grape, and Zuzka, bringing traditional Indian crafts to a global audience.

Media & Web Presence

Featured in multiple media outlets:

Bringing Colour Back to Cotton: Ramanadham Ramesh’s Revival Journey

Cotton is the most versatile and widely used fiber in textiles. Bharatavani has introduced cotton to the world. India is the largest exporters of handlooms to the world. We were exporting finest muslins of different shades to the globe till the advent of industrialisation. Most of the fabrics were naturally dyed using our traditional dyeing methods and a specific small portion of it was naturally coloured cotton, where in the cotton fibere attaines colour naturally by birth from the plant only. We had several naturally coloured cottons that ruled the market earlier. Unfortunately we lost ground over the last century. Inspite of that the naturally coloured RED cotton sustained for a very long duration, but now even that is losing ground quickly. Gollaprolu Red cotton and Konda Patti from srikakulam area are well known red cotton varieties struggling to sustain their stand in present world as the versatile definition of KHADI has changed. Center of this shift is Ramanadham Ramesh, a craft revivalist and eco-conscious farmer from Hyderabad, who is bringing indigenous coloured cotton back into the spotlight.

Ramesh cultivates 12 varieties of native Indian cotton. Unlike genetically modified hybrid cotton, desi (indigenous) cotton varieties are resilient, require less water, and do not need heavy chemical fertilizers or pesticides. They are naturally pest-resistant to a greater extent and better suited for organic farming. He has RED – 8 varieties, GREEN – in stabilising process and YELLOW – Preemptive stage. He says there are many other shades available, but he is not holding at present.

His efforts go beyond farming. Ramesh is actively promoting the traditional and sustainable desi cotton wicks for oil lamps to making hand-spun yarn for a healthy living. he demonstrates how every part of the cotton plant can be valuable.

To revive this traditional crop, Ramesh distributes native cotton seeds to interested farmers and provides them with the knowledge to grow these crops organically in a mixed cultivation method. His mission is not just agricultural—it’s cultural and ecological. He believes that reviving desi colourd cotton can give required impetus to the dwindling village-based traditional hand spun, hand woven khadi industries, create employment, and encourage eco-friendly lifestyles.

His work has gained attention for showing how traditional practices can align with modern sustainability goals in the present day requirement of minimalist eco conscious lifestyle. With increased awareness and support, desi cotton could play a major role in reducing environmental impact while uplifting rural economies.

Contact for seeds and guidance:
📞 Ramanadham Ramesh – 94400 55266.
Email: [email protected]