YS Rajasekhara Reddy Anniversary: Know The Leader Behind Jagan & Sharmila’s Political Journey
Andhra Pradesh commemorated YS Rajasekhara Reddy's 76th birth anniversary with tributes from his children, Jagan and Sharmila, despite their political differences.
Andhra Pradesh observed 76th birth anniversary of one of its most influential leaders, YS Rajasekhara Reddy, on July 8. The day, widely observed as YSR Jayanti, saw emotional tributes from his children — former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and current Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President YS Sharmila Reddy. Both leaders, despite their political differences, paid floral respects to their late father.
Adding to the commemorations, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy joined the observance, acknowledging YSR’s transformative contributions to public welfare and rural development. Large gatherings of party members and supporters reflected the lasting imprint YSR left on the people of Telugu-speaking states.
Remembering YSR
Born on July 8, 1949, Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy rose through the ranks of the Congress Party to become the 14th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, serving from 2004 until his untimely death in 2009. He was a dominant figure in the state’s politics for decades, winning every election he contested—both to the Lok Sabha and the State Assembly.
YSR is widely credited with launching pioneering welfare initiatives like free electricity for farmers and the Indiramma Housing Scheme, which provided lakhs of families with permanent housing. His grassroots governance style earned him massive popularity, especially in rural regions.
A Family Legacy That Lives On
YSR’s political legacy continues through his children, albeit on different paths. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, his son, went on to become the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, and continues to lead the YSR Congress Party. His daughter, YS Sharmila, now heads the AP Congress and is emerging as a key political voice in the state. Despite their public disagreements, both have consistently honoured their father’s memory.
In a poignant social media post, Jagan shared a heartfelt message: “Miss you Dad!”.
YSR's Tragic End
YSR’s life was tragically cut short on September 2, 2009, when his helicopter crashed in Nallamala forests.
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