Kaloji Biography

 

Padma Vibhushan Shri Kaloji Narayana Rao

Padma Vibhushan Shri Kaloji Narayana Rao [9 September 1914 - 13 November 2002] more popularly known as Kaloji or Kalanna is a well known freedom fighter and a political activist of Telangana noted for his contributions in the social and literary fields. Kaloji was born on September 9, 1914 in Madikonda village outskirts of Warangal, Warangal District, Andhra Pradesh.
Movements

During his student days and later, he was deeply influenced by the popular movements of the time like the Arya Samaj Movement, especially the civil rights part of it, the Library Movement and the Andhra Maha Sabha Movement. The fraternal care and affection of his elder brother Kaloji Rameshwar Rao, a noted Urdu poet, has also played a vital role in shaping the personality of Kaloji.

Kaloji participated in Andhra MahaSabha activities since its formation in 1934. He was also associated with the Arya Samaj.

He actively participated in the freedom movement of the erstwhile Hyderabad State and underwent imprisonment under the Nizam.

He has also participated in various social, political and literary activities in Andhra Pradesh.

His active involvement with the masses and their problems and his tireless struggle for their emancipation have naturally earned him in equal measure the love of the people and the wrath of the powers that be.

He is one of those select freedom fighters of our country who were imprisoned by the feudal lords and the alien rulers before the attainment of Indian Independence and by the native leaders thereafter