Amarajeevi Potti Sreeramulu | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | 16 March 1901 |
| Died | 15 December 1952 (aged 51) |
| Cause of death | Fasting |
| Resting place | Chennai |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | Sanitary Engineering |
| Occupation(s) | Engineer, social activist. |
| Known for | Hunger strike for a separate state of Andhra. |
| Title | Founding Father of Andhra Pradesh |
| Parent(s) | Guravayya and Mahalakshmamma |
Potti Sreeramulu (IAST: Poṭṭi Śreerāmulu; 16 March 1901 – 15 December 1952) was an Indian freedom fighter known for his pivotal role in the creation of Andhra State. Revered as "Amarajeevi" ("Immortal Being"), he is remembered for his commitment to social justice and the upliftment of Dalits, organizing fasts to advocate for their rights and access to religious sites. Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, Sreeramulu participated in major independence movements, including the Salt Satyagraha and Quit India movement, and was imprisoned multiple times.
Sreeramulu is most noted for his 56-day hunger strike in 1952, demanding a separate state for Telugu-speaking people from the Madras Presidency. His death during the protest sparked widespread riots and public outcry, prompting Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to announce the formation of Andhra State. This movement set a precedent for the reorganization of states along linguistic lines in India. Sreeramulu's legacy is commemorated in Andhra Pradesh and beyond as a symbol of sacrifice and dedication to regional and social causes.