| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Raghuveer Narayan Laxmikanth Srinivasa Ram Raja Kaloji |
| Popularly Known As | Kaloji Narayana Rao |
| Date of Birth | 9 September 1914 |
| Hometown | Rattihalli, Bijapur District, Karnataka (later settled in Telangana) |
| Parents | Father – Kaloji Rangarao (from Maharashtra), Mother – Ramabayamma (from Karnataka) |
| Siblings | Elder brother – Kaloji Rameshwar Rao (Urdu poet) |
| Education | Primary education at Madikonda; higher studies in Warangal and Hyderabad |
| Occupation | Poet, Freedom Fighter, Political Activist |
| Spouse | Rukmini Bai (married in 1940) |
| Language Skills | Telugu, Urdu, Marathi, Kannada, Hindi |
| Awards | Padma Vibhushan (1992) |
| Death Date | 13 November 2002 |
| Age at Passing | 88 years |
| Net Worth | Not formally documented, remembered more for literary and social contributions than wealth |
Who is Kaloji Narayana Rao?
Kaloji Narayana Rao (1914–2002) was a celebrated Indian poet, freedom fighter, and political activist whose life was closely tied to the history and culture of Telangana. Fondly called “Praja Kavi” (the people’s poet), his writings reflected the struggles, dreams, and voices of ordinary people.
In recognition of his contributions to literature and society, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1992. The Government of Telangana also honors his legacy by celebrating his birthday, 9 September, as Telangana Language Day every year.
Early Life and Hometown
Kaloji was born on 9 September 1914 in Rattihalli village, Bijapur district (now in Karnataka). His family background was diverse—his mother, Ramabayamma, hailed from Karnataka, while his father, Kaloji Rangarao, belonged to Maharashtra. This mix of cultures enriched his outlook and influenced his multilingual abilities.
His elder brother, Kaloji Rameshwar Rao, an Urdu poet, deeply influenced his literary and social thinking. Growing up, Kaloji was exposed to both literature and grassroots struggles, which shaped his vision as a writer and activist.
Education and Early Influences
Kaloji received his primary education at Madikonda and later pursued higher studies in Warangal and Hyderabad. He was a natural polyglot, learning Telugu, Urdu, Marathi, Kannada, and Hindi. Although he began writing in Telugu, his multilingual fluency allowed him to reach broader audiences through poetry in multiple languages.
Career and Contributions
Kaloji was not just a poet—he was a freedom fighter and social reformer. His work consistently carried a spirit of resistance against oppression, inequality, and fascism.
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As a freedom activist, he took part in the independence movement and stood against injustice during the Nizam’s rule in Hyderabad.
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As a poet, his verses captured the everyday struggles of people, from peasants and workers to marginalized communities.
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His role as a political activist made him a significant figure in Telangana’s history, remembered for always voicing the concerns of the common man.
In 1992, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Vibhushan, one of the nation’s highest civilian awards.
Personal Life
In 1940, Kaloji married Rukmini Bai, who supported him in his literary and social journey. Despite his growing influence, Kaloji lived a simple life, staying rooted in the struggles of the people he wrote about.
Passing Away
Kaloji Narayana Rao passed away on 13 November 2002, at the age of 88. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his writings, activism, and the annual celebration of Telangana Language Day in his honor.
Net Worth
Unlike many public figures, Kaloji was never associated with wealth or material possessions. His “net worth” cannot be measured in money, but rather in the impact of his words, his role in India’s freedom movement, and his contribution to the Telugu language and Telangana’s cultural identity.
FAQs about Kaloji Narayana Rao
Q: What is Kaloji Narayana Rao’s full name?
A: His full name is Raghuveer Narayan Laxmikanth Srinivasa Ram Raja Kaloji.
Q: When and where was he born?
A: He was born on 9 September 1914, in Rattihalli village, Bijapur district, Karnataka.
Q: When did Kaloji Narayana Rao pass away?
A: He passed away on 13 November 2002 at the age of 88.
Q: What was his profession?
A: He was a poet, freedom fighter, political activist, and social reformer.
Q: What awards did he receive?
A: He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 1992.
Q: What is his legacy in Telangana?
A: His birthday, September 9, is celebrated as Telangana Language Day to honor his contribution to literature and culture.
Conclusion
Kaloji Narayana Rao’s life was one of resilience, creativity, and service to the people. From his poetry to his activism, he stood firmly for justice and equality. Though he passed away in 2002, his words and ideals continue to inspire generations. Today, as Telangana celebrates his birthday as Telangana Language Day, his legacy remains
