Going on seventies, still on a song

Literally singing Ghantasala’s songs, the ex-revenue official enthrals everyone

Exhibiting age-defying vigour, Akula Ganapathi Raju, a septuagenarian who retired from government service around 14 years ago, is exploring his singing potential, contributing his mite to promoting the glorious musical legacy of legendary singer and composer late Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao, popularly known as Ghatasala.

Gifted with a melodious voice and driven by an everlasting penchant for singing since his childhood, the singer won much adulation from music lovers and connoisseurs alike in the district and elsewhere in the State.

A die-hard fan of Ghantasala, Mr. Ganapathi Raju has devoted much of his leisure time to music post-retirement.

Versatile range

By virtue of his versatile personality and skills to render old melodies, and classical and devotional songs with amazing ease, he earned wide popularity as a multifaceted entertainer and also a talented anchor. Mr. Ganapathi Raju , who retired as Deputy Tehsildar in 2004, has won numerous awards and honours from various cultural organisations in the last couple of years.

His high-spirited performance at the inaugural ceremony of the day-care centre for senior citizens in Khammam the other day left the audience, mostly comprising elders, awe-struck. The senior citizens were treated to a slew of soul-stirring and enchanting songs of Ghantasala during an-hour long ceremony, rekindling memories.

‘Secret of health’

“I derive energy from music and the secret of my health is regular singing,” said Mr. Ganapathi Raju, who showed no sign of fatigue. “Ghantasala, described as Gana Gandharva, will remain entrenched in the souls of music lovers forever for his pioneering contribution to Telugu music,” he said in a chat with The Hindu .

“I select songs appropriate to the occasion from the rich repertoire of Ghantasala’s songs and rely on spontaneity, accuracy, and, above all, commitment to regaling the audience,” he said.

Mr. Ganapathi Raju considers the evergreen number ‘ Bhale Manchi Roju, Pasandaina Roju’ perfect for occasions like weddings, receptions, and birth-day celebrations. So true.