A Luminary`s Farewell: Siva Shakthi Datta Leaves Behind a Rich Legacy
Updated on: 08 July, 2025 05:03 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Siva Shakthi Dutta
The Telugu entertainment industry mourns the loss of a true multifaceted genius, Siva Shakthi Datta, who passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 92. He breathed his last at his residence in Manikonda, Hyderabad, due to age-related health complications. Datta was a celebrated lyricist, screenwriter, director, painter, and producer, whose profound contributions greatly enriched Telugu cinema.
A Life Dedicated to Art and Literature
Born Koduri Subbarao in Kovvu, Andhra Pradesh, in 1932, Siva Shakthi Datta`s journey in the world of arts began with the pen name Kamalesh before he adopted the iconic Siva Shakthi Datta. He was renowned for his lyrical and literary finesse, particularly his mastery of Sanskrit-based lyrics. His iconic words graced numerous blockbuster films, including Baahubali, RRR, Magadheera, HanuMan, Sye, Rajanna, and Sri Ramadasu. Memorable songs like "Anjandri Theme Song," "Amma Avani," "Raamam Raghavam," "Nalla Nallani Kalla," and "Agni Skalana, Mannela Thintivira" stand as a testament to his lyrical prowess.
Siva Shakthi Datta was an integral part of one of Telugu cinema`s most influential families. He was the father of Oscar-winning music composer M.M. Keeravani and the elder brother of celebrated screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad, making him the uncle of ace filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli. His collaborations with Rajamouli and M.M. Keeravani on films like Sye, Chatrapathi, Rajanna, the Baahubali series, RRR, and Hanu-Man further solidified his legacy.
Tributes Pour In
The news of Siva Shakthi Datta`s demise elicited a wave of condolences from across the industry. Actor-politician Pawan Kalyan took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his grief: "Deeply saddened by the demise of Siva Shakthi Datta garu. He had an immense passion for arts and literature. My heartfelt condolences to Keeravani garu and the entire family."
Megastar Chiranjeevi Konidela also expressed his sorrow, posting, "Shocked and saddened by the news of Siva Shakthi Datta garu’s passing. A man of immense talent and a true lover of the arts. My thoughts are with Keeravani garu and the entire family during this difficult time." Mahesh Babu paid his respects in person, and the makers of Chiranjeevi`s Vishwambhara also conveyed their condolences.
Siva Shakthi Datta`s funeral is expected to be held in Hyderabad, where family members, industry colleagues, and admirers will gather to pay their final respects to a legend whose work will continue to inspire generations.
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