Hyderabad, May 14 (RAHNUMA): Eminent Telugu writer and literary stalwart Sharada Ashokavardhan passed away at the age of 87 at her daughter’s residence in Banjara Hills here on Wednesday night.
A prolific author, Sharada Ashokavardhan enriched Telugu literature with more than 80 books spanning novels, poetry, plays, essays, lyrics, children’s literature and newspaper columns.
She also served for several years with All India Radio and gained immense popularity for lyrical works such as “Manasaayera Madhava”. Her “Ganapathi Suprabatham”, rendered by legendary singer M. Balamuralikrishna, remains widely cherished by devotees and music lovers.
Many of her songs were tuned by noted composer Palagummi Viswanadham, while her literary works were translated into Tamil, Kannada and Hindi. Her writings also became subjects of academic research and doctoral studies.
Apart from literature, she held important positions in public service, serving as Joint Director in the State Information Department and later as Director of Jawahar Bal Bhavan.
Sharada Ashokavardhan received three Nandi Awards and several prestigious honours, including the Telugu University Award, Susheela Narayana Reddy Award and Rajyalakshmi Award.
She was also known for her role as commentator for programmes organised by former Chief Minister and actor N.T. Rama Rao.
She is survived by four daughters, including noted journalist, anchor and author Shailaja Suman.
Her demise marks the end of a distinguished literary era in Telugu culture.
