TDP a true reflection of aspirations of Telugus, says CM Chandrababu Naidu
Amaravati, March 29
Telugu Desam Party national President and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Sunday that TDP is the true reflection of the aspirations of Telugu people.
On the occasion of the 44th foundation day of TDP, he conveyed his thoughts to the 'TDP family members'.
"The Telugu Desam Party, founded by the epoch-making NTR, is a true reflection of the aspirations of generations of Telugu people. We are steadfastly following his principle of providing food, clothing and shelter to the poor," he posted on X.
"The Telugu Desam Party belongs to its workers. The founding day is our family festival. On this festive occasion, I extend my personal best wishes to every worker," he said.
TDP general secretary and Andhra Pradesh Minister for human resources development and information technology, Nara Lokesh, in his message, recalled that the TDP was born for the self-respect and upliftment of the Telugu people.
"Inspired by the legendary actor and global icon, the late NT Rama Rao, who declared that society is the temple and the people are the gods, the TDP stood as a support for the poor people. It was only after the emergence of TDP that the oppressed, poor, and weaker sections in society gained political and social recognition," he said.
Lokesh claimed that the party that introduced welfare to the nation is the Telugu Desam Party. "On the occasion of the founding day of the Telugu Desam Party, which is marching forward with the goal of making Telugu people number one in the world, heartfelt congratulations to everyone," added Lokesh, who is the son of Chandrababu Naidu.
On March 29, 1982, N.T. Rama Rao, a popular Telugu actor, formed the TDP on the slogan of Telugu self-respect. NTR, as he was popularly called, created a record of sorts by coming to power within nine months of forming the party.
NTR died in January 1996, a few months after his son-in-law Chandrababu Naidu led a revolt against him to become the chief minister of then undivided Andhra Pradesh. Naidu led TDP to power in 1999 and remained chief minister till 2004, when Congress wrested power.
After the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, TDP formed the first government in the residuary state. In 2019, the party lost power to YSRCP led by Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. TDP-led NDA stormed to power in 2024 in the state with Chandrababu Naidu as the Chief Minister.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an observer of Indian politics, the TDP's story is fascinating. From an actor founding a party on a platform of regional pride to its current role in the NDA, it shows the dynamic nature of state politics in India. The focus on "Telugu self-respect" is a powerful mobilizing idea.
While I appreciate the sentiment on the foundation day, I hope the current leadership moves beyond just words. The aspirations of Telugu people today include jobs, infrastructure development in Amaravati, and controlling price rise. Action speaks louder than anniversary messages. Let's see tangible results.
NTR is a legend no doubt. He gave a voice to the common man. But we must also acknowledge that politics has changed. The true reflection of aspirations will be if the government delivers on its promises for farmers and youth. The history is glorious, now we need a future that matches it.
It's heartening to see Lokesh garu also emphasizing NTR's ideals. The line "society is the temple and the people are the gods" is so profound. If every politician remembered this, our country would be in a much better place. Here's hoping the party stays true to this philosophy.
The journey from 1982 to 2024 has been a rollercoaster for TDP and for Andhra. Coming to power within 9 months is a record that speaks volumes about NTR's connect with the people. Now, with a fresh mandate, the focus should be 100% on development and unity.
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