The environs of Zilla Parishad High School at Gannavaram came alive on Friday. And for a change, it was the old boys of the school, who were responsible for the buzz as they organised a special programme to unveil the bust of former Chief Minister Jalagam Vengal Rao on the school premises.
It is always a special occasion as the statue of a former student is unveiled in the school in recognition of his achievements. This is what the old boys of the school planned and installed a bust of Mr. Rao at the school, where he studied till tenth standard (SSLC).
Kothagudem MLA Jalagam Venkat Rao, son of Mr. Rao, was special invitee for the programme. It was unveiled by Zilla Parishad chairperson Gadde Anuradha, Gannavaram MLA V. Vamsi Mohan and others in Mr. Rao’s presence.
“My father lived here in Keesarapalli and studied in Gannavaram high school. It is an honour for our family and I consider it has a privilege for being part of this occasion,” said Mr. Rao.
He always set high standards as a human being and wanted development of the society, especially the poor. Post-bifurcation, it is high time that both the States compete in growth and development and strive for upliftment of the poor, he said while addressing on the occasion.
Telugu Association of North America former president Thotakura Prasad released a special book penned on Jalagam Vengal Rao by veteran journalist Turlapaty Kutumbha Rao, who also is the alumnus of the school. He was a man of action and believed in hard work. He never succumbed to any pressure and during the Razakar movement, two attempts were made to eliminate him, said Mr. Rao.
Gannavaram MLA Vamsi Mohan said Jalagam Venkat Rao earned the respect from leaders of different political parities and set an example for the present generation. Mr Thotakura Prasad said Jalagam Vengal Rao had not only brought fame to the school but also to Gannavaram and Keesarapalli with his achievements.
