Mon Mar 10 05:20:51 UTC 2025: ## Renowned Classical Singer Garimella Balakrishna Prasad Passes Away at 76
**TIRUPATI, March 10, 2025** – Garimella Balakrishna Prasad, a celebrated classical singer and former Asthana Vidwan (court singer) of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), passed away on Sunday at the age of 76 due to a heart attack. His death has been met with widespread grief and tributes from across the political spectrum.
Prasad, who served the TTD from 1978 to 2006, was renowned for his melodious voice and his significant contributions to Carnatic, folk, and classical music. He is particularly remembered for composing music for over 600 Annamacharya sankirtanas (devotional hymns), bringing the works of the saint-poet to a wider audience.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his shock and sorrow at Prasad’s passing, praising the musician’s talent and dedication. He lauded Prasad’s invaluable service to the TTD and his contribution to preserving Annamacharya’s legacy. Similarly, former Chief Minister and YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy offered his condolences and highlighted Prasad’s exceptional musical contributions and his role in popularizing Annamacharya’s work. Both leaders extended their sympathies to Prasad’s family.
First Piper 