Telangana folk singer, activist Gaddar dies

Gummadi Vittal Rao, popularly known as Gaddar

Renowned folk singer and balladeer Gaddar, who was popularly known for his revolutionary songs during the 1980s and later during the Telangana statehood agitation, passed away here on Sunday due to ill-health.

Born as Gummadi Vittal Rao at Toopran in Medak district in 1949, the 77-year-old died due to lung and urinary problems and advanced age, Apollo Spectra Hospital said.

A former naxalite, Gaddar had led an underground life, including in the forests. Subsequently, he had joined the mainstream and voted for the first time in his life in the Telangana Legislative Assembly polls in 2018.

Gaddar, who played a key role in spreading public awareness on various issues, gave an impetus to the Telangana statehood agitation with his songs, Union minister and Telangana BJP president G Kishan Reddy said.

"Saddened to hear about the demise of Shri Gummadi Vittal Rao, Telangana's iconic poet, balladeer and fiery activist," Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted.
"His (Gaddar) love for the people of Telangana drove him to fight tirelessly for the marginalised. May his legacy continue to inspire us all," he said.

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