On a somber Sunday afternoon, the world bid farewell to Gummadi Vithal Rao, fondly known as Gaddar, a prominent balladeer and former ideologue of the Maoist party. The 77-year-old artist passed away after battling a brief illness at a private hospital in Hyderabad. Gaddar’s journey began in 1946 in Toopran, Kamareddy district, Telangana. He briefly worked at Canara Bank before embracing “revolutionary politics.”
He later founded Jana Natya Mandali, the cultural wing of the People’s War Group of Naxalites, which eventually transformed into the Communist Party of India (Maoist). His thought-provoking revolutionary songs captured the hearts of many young souls, inspiring them to join the cause of Maoism. Not only was Gaddar an influential artist, but he also played a significant role in raising awareness about the 1987 Karamchedu massacre, bringing national attention to the plight of Dalits. However, his activism did not come without risks.
In 1997, he miraculously survived an attack at his residence, where he believed the assailants were police. Despite undergoing surgery, a bullet remained lodged near his spine, a constant reminder of the dangers he faced. With the resurgence of the Telangana movement, Gaddar passionately supported the demand for a separate state. In 2010, he distanced himself from the Maoist party, and in 2017, he completely severed ties with them. This marked a turning point in his political journey, as he took a stance against electoral politics. In 2018, he even enrolled as a voter and actively participated in the assembly elections, exercising his democratic right.
The multi-talented artist’s songs resonated not only on revolutionary stages but also in the realms of cinema. Several Telugu films featured his soul-stirring compositions, turning them into chart-topping hits. He also showcased his linguistic versatility by writing songs in Hindi and the Gond language. Last month, Gaddar made headlines again when he announced the launch of his own political party, the Gaddar Praja Party. This move marked a departure from his previous support for the Congress party. His determination to bring about political change continued to the very end, as he expressed his intention to contest upcoming elections.
Gaddar’s passing was met with deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences from leaders, poets, and admirers alike. The likes of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, and Telangana Congress President A Revanth Reddy all mourned the loss of this iconic figure. As Gaddar’s music and spirit continue to resonate in the hearts of many, his legacy as a revolutionary artist and political thinker remains etched in the annals of history. His songs will forever serve as an inspiration to those who strive for change and justice.