Sun Aug 03 17:21:13 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, formatted as if it were from *The Hindu* on August 3, 2025:
**Diviseema Gandhi, Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao, Honored on Birth Centenary**
**Vijayawada, August 3, 2025:** Tributes are pouring in for Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao (1926-1997), affectionately known as ‘Diviseema Gandhi,’ on the eve of his birth centenary. A celebration honoring his legacy of honesty, simplicity, and unwavering Gandhian values is scheduled for August 4th at the Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada, with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu as the chief guest.
Mr. R. Mallikarjuna Rao, Director of the Department of Language and Culture, highlighted Krishna Rao’s dedication to public service, emphasizing how he transformed politics into a platform for compassion. Rao’s father instilled strong moral and intellectual foundations that guided him throughout his life.
Inspired by Gandhi’s writings from a young age, Krishna Rao dedicated his life to rural upliftment and social reform. His contributions extend beyond local service; in 1975, he spearheaded the first World Telugu Conference and later facilitated the establishment of the International Telugu Centre in Hyderabad, solidifying the global importance of Telugu language and culture.
The defining moment of Krishna Rao’s life, as recalled by Mr. Mallikarjuna Rao, was his response to the devastating 1977 Diviseema cyclone. As a Cabinet Minister, he resigned from his post to personally lead relief efforts, wading through flood-stricken villages to aid survivors. His selfless actions earned him the enduring title of ‘Diviseema Gandhi.’
The centenary celebrations aim to commemorate the life and work of this remarkable leader, ensuring his values of service and compassion continue to inspire future generations.
First Piper 