Wed Jul 16 15:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Khammam Farmer’s Song of Despair Goes Viral, Highlighting Agrarian Crisis
**Khammam, Telangana – July 16, 2025** – A heart-wrenching song by a farmer from Khammam district expressing the plight of farmers in Telangana has gone viral on social media, sparking renewed conversations about agrarian distress. The song, sung by Arempula Venkanna from Pindiprolu village, Tirumalayapalem mandal, poignantly describes the struggles of farmers facing crop failures, lack of fair prices, and governmental neglect.
The lyrics, translating to “What a life is this? It would be better to be born as a stone,” resonate with the struggles faced by many farmers who dedicate their lives to feeding the nation. Venkanna, who has been farming since childhood, cultivates various crops on his three acres of land. He recounts facing numerous challenges, including high input costs and unfavorable weather conditions, which lead to low market prices.
The viral video captures Venkanna’s emotional outburst after a customer in Dammaigudem village offered him only 5 Rupees for a bunch of Gongura (Roselle leaves) that he was selling for 10 Rupees. His song encapsulates the despair of a farmer who feels his hard work and dedication are not valued.
Venkanna is also known for his active participation in movements advocating for farmers’ rights, previously working with New Democracy and even serving as an MPTC representative. He also uses his musical talent to raise awareness about farmer issues, most recently in the Delhi protests against the controversial farm laws. Despite being illiterate, Venkanna has trained many in traditional art forms and has played a significant role in the Telangana movement through his songs. He continues to support his family by selling vegetables grown on his land in various local markets.
First Piper 