Legendary Telugu lyricist and father of acclaimed composer MM Keeravani, Siva Shakthi Datta, has passed away at the age of 92 in Hyderabad.
A Rich Legacy in Telugu Cinema
Siva Shakthi Datta, a name synonymous with profound lyrics and artistic versatility, left a significant mark on the Telugu film industry. He was a multi-talented personality, known not just for his songwriting but also as a painter, Sanskrit scholar, writer, and storyteller.
His contributions spanned decades, enriching countless films with his evocative words. Datta had been battling age-related health issues for some time before his passing on Monday.
Film Industry Mourns a Legend
The news of Siva Shakthi Datta’s demise sent shockwaves through the Telugu film fraternity. Many prominent personalities took to social media and paid their respects in person.
Megastar Chiranjeevi expressed his deep sorrow on X (formerly Twitter). He described Datta as a “multifaceted genius” and offered his heartfelt condolences to MM Keeravani and his family.
Director Sampath Nandi also posted on X, acknowledging Datta’s “towering legacy” and the indelible mark he left on every Telugu heart. Actor Teja Sajja shared his sadness, feeling fortunate to have worked with the veteran writer, calling it a “great loss.”
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli, Datta’s nephew and Keeravani’s cousin, along with superstar Mahesh Babu, visited the family to pay their personal tributes.
From Canvas to Cinema
Born Koduri Subbarao in Kovvu, Andhra Pradesh, he initially pursued his passion as a painter, adopting the pen name Kamalesh. His artistic journey evolved as he explored music, learning various instruments before embracing the name Siva Shakthi Datta.
His career as a lyricist officially began with the 1988 film *Janaki Ramudu*. Over the years, he penned memorable songs for blockbuster movies. His impressive filmography includes works like *Sye*, *Chatrapathi*, *Rajanna*, and the global sensations *Baahubali: The Beginning*, *Baahubali 2: The Conclusion*, and *RRR*.
Beyond lyrics, Datta also ventured into direction with the 2007 film *Chandrahas*, further showcasing his diverse talents within the industry.
- Siva Shakthi Datta was a renowned Telugu lyricist and father of composer MM Keeravani.
- He was also a painter, Sanskrit scholar, writer, and storyteller.
- Prominent figures like Chiranjeevi, Mahesh Babu, SS Rajamouli, and others paid their respects.
- His notable works include lyrics for *Baahubali* films, *RRR*, and *Hanu-Man*.
Siva Shakthi Datta’s profound impact on Telugu cinema and literature will be remembered for generations to come, leaving behind a rich tapestry of art and words.
