G. Anand

G. Anand
BornFebruary 16th, 1944
Tulagam, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, India
Died6 May 2021(2021-05-06) (aged 77)[1]
GenresIndian music, playback singing, composer
Occupation(s)Singer, composer
Years active1972–1990
Labelsswaramadhuri

Gedela Ananda Rao (February 16, 1944[citation needed] - May 6, 2021), commonly known as G. Anand or by his stage name Swaramadhuri, was an Indian Telugu playback singer. He was renowned for his performances with the troupe 'Swara Madhuri,' which entertained audiences globally. Throughout his career, he delivered over 6500 musical performances.

Early life and career

Anand was born in Tulagam village in Srikakulam, a district in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. He learned music from his father, who was a stage drama artist. His family often performed together in mythological dramas, with his father playing the role of Lord Rama, and Anand and his brother playing the roles of Lord Rama's sons Luv and Kush. Anand began his singing career by performing at festivals and functions in neighboring villages. He participated in numerous competitions, winning several prizes. On one such occasion, he was declared the winner by renowned music director K. V. Mahadevan and singer S. P. Balasubrahmanyam. Following the competition, K. V. Mahadevan promised to give Anand an opportunity in the film industry.[2]

Following his first performance, he resided in Madras at the home of the late Leelaraani. Later, he moved in with Medisetty Apparao and Sarathbabu. During a function hosted by actor Chandramohan, Sri Navatha Krishnamraju heard him sing and subsequently introduced him to Venkatesh. Impressed by his singing, Venkatesh promised to help him secure a singing opportunity. They sent him to collect lyrics from Devulapalli Krishna Sastry. After a week, Devulapalli was impressed with his voice and provided a recommendation letter to K. V. Mahadevan. This led to his debut singing the song "Oka Venuvu Vinipinchenu" in the movie America Ammayi.[3]

Death

Anand died, aged 77, from COVID-19.[4][5]

Discography

References

  1. ^ Mary, S. b Vijaya (7 May 2021). "Veteran Telugu playback singer G. Anand succumbs to COVID-19". The Hindu – via www.thehindu.com.
  2. ^ "interview of G.Anand". Archived from the original on 2 April 2013. Retrieved 5 November 2012.
  3. ^ Narasimham, M L (16 October 2017). "The rise of G Anand". The Hindu. Retrieved 23 May 2021.
  4. ^ "Veteran singer G Anand passes away due to Covid-19, Chiranjeevi leads industry in paying tributes". The Indian Express. 7 May 2021. Retrieved 7 May 2021.
  5. ^ "Veteran singer G Anand passes away due to the lack of oxygen supply". The Times of India. 7 May 2021. Retrieved 7 May 2021.