HYDERABAD: Rich tributes were paid to the legendary playback singer of yester years Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao on the occasion of his 88th birth anniversary at a function held here today.
Roads and buildings minister Dharmana Prasada Rao, who was one of the guests at the function, said the legacy of Ghantasala would continue as long as Telugu culture was alive.
“His songs have influenced everyone of us and will continue to inspire though he is no more. I have never met him, but I consider him very close to my heart, ‘’ Prasada Rao said.
On this occasion, Rao also reminded the gathering that Ghantasala was not only a singer but also a freedom fighter.
Later noted poet C Narayana Reddy was presented with the Ghantasala award.
Sharing his association with Ghantasala, Narayana Reddy said: “I have stopped accepting awards as I want the younger generation to receive them. But since this is Ghantasala award I am glad to accept it,” he said.
A stamp was released in the honour of the singer on the occasion. Mayor B Karthika Reddy also attended the programme. The programme was organised by the AP state cultural council and the Cultural Affairs ministry.