Gurajada Venkata Apparao, a versatile Telugu writer, was born in Rayavaram village near Yelamanchili in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. Two dates of birth viz. 30th November, 1861 and 21st September, 1862 are associated with Gurajada Venkata Apparao. However, his descendants prefer the second date.
Gurajada did his schooling from Cheepurupalli and Vizianagram. After his father's death, he faced utter poverty and his education was supported by C. Chandrasekhara Sastri, Principal, M. R. College. He completed his graduation in 1886. In 1887, he joined the M. R. College as a lecturer and was promoted as a senior Lecturer in 1891.
Gurajada began his writing career by writing several English poems. His literary work, Sarangadhara, published in ‘Indian Leisure Hour’ was received well. Though his English writings were appreciated, he was encouraged to write in Telugu. His writings in Telugu also became popular. His drama ‘KafiyasulkanY was staged for the first time in 1892 and became the first Telugu drama written in spoken dialect. The use of the spoken dialect led to a movement which turned Gurajada into a celebrity and brought him in contact with literary luminaries of his times. In 1909, Gurajada came up with the second edition of Kanyasulkam which is considered as an outstanding work of literature. His other notable contribution to literature are Desabhakti, Poornamma, Kanyaka and Layanaraju.
Gurajada used all forms of literature like drama, novel, poetry, short story and essay with equal finesse. He unreservedly assimilated the rich heritage of western classics in his own culture and language and produced a refreshing synthesis of both cultures. Known as the harbinger of new age in Telugu, Gurajada gave a concrete literary platform to the social reform movement. His writings on female education, widow remarriage, abolition of child marriages, condemnation of corruption, illiteracy, etc are his contribution to the society.
Gurajada took retirement in 1913 and was honoured with Fellowship by Madras University. After a brief illness, he died in 1915.
Department of Posts is happy to issue a Commemorative Stamp on Gurajada Venkata Apparao.
Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India