My name is SriRamraju, and I am proud to be known as the grandson of Alluri Sitarama Raju. For many, he is a national hero. For me, he is also family. I grew up hearing his name not only in history books but in conversations at home, in festivals, and in quiet moments with my mother. His story is not just a tale of freedom struggle — it is the heartbeat of our family. This blog is my way of sharing who I am, what I have lived, and how I continue to carry forward his dream.

When you grow up as the descendant of a freedom fighter like Alluri Sitarama Raju, you inherit more than a family name — you inherit a responsibility. My father, Tirupati Raju, passed away when I was just 11 years old. His death changed everything for us. Life became difficult overnight. My mother, Satyavathi, was my guiding light. She taught me to be strong, to work hard, and to never let pain stop us from moving forward.

I worked as a paperboy in my childhood. The mornings were early and the work was hard, but I knew it was necessary. With the little money I earned, I supported my family, arranged my sister’s marriage, and made sure my brothers Ramraju and Lakshman Varma completed their education. I also completed my own studies privately because I refused to give up on my dreams.

My grandfather, Alluri Sitarama Raju, was known as “Manyam Veerudu” — the Hero of the Jungle. He led the famous Rampa Rebellion between 1922 and 1924, fighting against British colonial rule. He inspired tribal people to stand up and claim their rights. He attacked police stations, collected weapons, and shook the foundations of British power in the agency areas of Andhra Pradesh.

Whenever I think about those stories, I imagine how brave he must have been to face such danger with no fear. That courage runs in my blood. It reminds me that I must live a life worthy of his name — a life of honesty, service, and strength.

One of the proudest moments of my life was being honored at the Red Fort in New Delhi by central ministers. Standing there, hearing my grandfather’s name spoken with respect, I felt emotional. It was as if the entire country was telling me, “We remember him. We honor him.” That moment gave me even more motivation to do something meaningful with my life.

Today, I work as a Mining In-Charge in Narsipatnam, near Anakapalli district. This role keeps me connected to the land and the people, just like my grandfather stayed connected with the tribal communities he fought for. But my work does not end with my job. I dedicate time to social service — helping students with education, supporting local families, and sharing my grandfather’s story in schools and community events. This, I believe, is my way of continuing his mission.

Behind every story of courage is a family that gives strength. My mother is my greatest inspiration. After losing my father, she worked tirelessly to keep our family together. My brothers stood by me, and together we faced every challenge. We are proud to be the family of a freedom fighter, but we also see ourselves as ordinary people with the responsibility to do good in society.

It fills me with pride to see how India remembers my grandfather. In 2022, a new district was named Alluri Sitharama Raju district with its headquarters at Paderu. In 2024, the Visakhapatnam airport was renamed Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport. These honors show that his sacrifice was not in vain. He lives on, not just in our family, but in the heart of every Indian who values freedom.

Being the grandson of Alluri Sitarama Raju is not just a matter of pride; it is a responsibility. My message to everyone reading this is simple: never forget the sacrifices that gave us freedom. We must use that freedom to build a better country — one that is fair, just, and strong.

You do not have to be a revolutionary to make a difference. You can make a difference by helping a neighbor, by being honest in your work, and by standing up against injustice in your daily life. That is how we keep the spirit of heroes like my grandfather alive.

This is my story — the story of SriRamraju, grandson of Alluri Sitarama Raju. I have faced hardship, worked hard, and stayed true to the values I was taught. I share this with you not just to honor my family, but to inspire others. The legacy of my grandfather is not just a part of history — it is a guide for how we can live today.

Together, let us carry forward his dream and build the India he sacrificed his life for. That is how I honor him, every single day.