Statues of Telugu theatre stalwarts unveiled in Vijayawada - The HinduPublished - July 03, 2026 09:16 pm IST - VIJAYAWADAVijayawada Central MLA Bonda Umamaheswara Rao unveils the statues of noted theatre artistes P. Suribabu and P. Rajeswari during the birth anniversary celebrations of legendary actor S. V. Ranga Rao at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada on Friday. | Photo Credit: G.N. RaoVijayawada Central MLA Bonda Umamaheswara Rao unveiled the statues of noted theatre artistes P. Suribabu and his wife P. Rajeswari at Thummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada on Friday.Addressing the gathering, Mr. Rao said the coalition government was committed to the welfare of artistes and lauded the couple’s immense contribution to Telugu theatre and performing arts.The event was organised by P. Nagahari Prasad, grandson of the couple, who thanked the guests and artistes for attending the function.Born in Bommaluru, P. Suribabu was a celebrated singer-actor of Telugu theatre and cinema. Renowned for his powerful voice, he earned the sobriquet “Kanchukantham Suribabu”. He founded the Balakrishna Nataka Samajam in 1931 and later headed the Rajarajeswari Natyamandali for more than 25 years, presenting acclaimed productions such as Tarashashankam, Bhukailas and Kurukshetram. He also produced the National Award-winning film Mahakavi Kalidasu.P. Rajeswari, a pioneering singer-actor from Nemalikallu in Guntur district, was known for her versatility in portraying both male and female roles. Her portrayal of Tara in Tarashashankam remains one of her most acclaimed performances. She was among the earliest Telugu artistes to have a gramophone record released by HMV in 1933.Through the Rajarajeswari Natyamandali, the couple played a significant role in popularising Telugu theatre across the region. They later made Vijayawada their home by establishing Rajeswari Mahal, and a road in Satyanarayanapuram was named Rajeswari Veedhi in her honour.Noted music director Madhavapeddi Suresh, corporator Nellibantla Balasamay, senior writer-journalist Rentala Jayadeva, artistes and admirers attended the programme.Published - July 03, 2026 09:16 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }