Remembering Nadendla Bhaskar Rao: The Fearless Leader Who Challenged NTR – A Legacy of Courage at 90

Former Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, Nadendla Bhaskar Rao, passed away on Wednesday at a super-specialty hospital while receiving treatment for age-related ailments, as confirmed by a release from the Jana Sena Party. He was a prominent figure in Andhra Pradesh politics and is well-remembered for his pivotal role in a coup against N. T. Rama Rao (NTR), the founder of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), in 1984.

Bhaskar Rao’s political career began as a minister in NTR’s cabinet, but it took a dramatic turn when he rebelled against his leader, leading to a brief term as Chief Minister. His administration, however, was short-lived; he held office for just 30 days before NTR regained control amid a massive ‘Save Democracy’ movement organized by the TDP. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was instrumental in this campaign to reinstating NTR.

Following his tumultuous tenure, Bhaskar Rao transitioned to national politics, securing a seat in the Lok Sabha as a Congress ticket holder in 1998. His political affiliations continued to evolve; in 2019, he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in a ceremony attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Bhaskar Rao’s legacy is carried on by his son, Nadenda Manohar, a prominent leader in the Jana Sena Party and currently serving as the Civil Supplies Minister in Andhra Pradesh. His contributions to the state’s political landscape have sparked both admiration and controversy over the decades.

In a gesture of respect, Rao’s body will be placed at his residence in Jubilee Hills, allowing friends, family, and supporters to pay their final respects. A press release has confirmed that his last rites will take place in Panjagutta, Hyderabad, on April 24.

Bhaskar Rao’s death marks the end of an era for many in Andhra Pradesh, reflecting a complex legacy intertwined with the state’s political history. As tributes pour in from various quarters, he will be remembered as a figure who significantly influenced the political dynamics of the region.

Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/nadendla-bhaskar-rao-ex-andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-who-led-coup-against-ntr-dies-at-90-11776845802395.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-04-22 14:10:00