Papammagari Srinivasa Reddy

T

he youngest son and sixth child of P. Sathyanarayana Reddy and P. Akkulamma, he was born in the small village of Yenumulapalli, Andhra Pradesh. My father was a man of quiet strength and deep intellect, he pursued his passion for knowledge, earning an M.Sc. in Geology followed by a B.Ed.

In 1996, he began his dedicated career as a teacher in Andhra Pradesh government schools, where he served with great commitment until the very end, passing away while still on duty, a testament to his lifelong devotion to education and service. Alongside my mother, also a teacher, they shared rides to school, supported each other, and built a home filled with love, guidance, and shared responsibilities.

My father had a profound love for photography. In an era when cameras were a rare luxury, he owned several, capturing countless precious moments that now form the heart of our family memories. His lens preserved joy, togetherness, and the simple beauty of everyday life.

Above all, he was the epitome of responsibility and sacrifice. He placed his family above everything, quietly giving up his own comforts so we could thrive. Hardworking and humorous, he brought laughter to colleagues and warmth to every gathering. He valued relationships deeply, always acknowledging the support of his family and loved ones in his journey.

To me, he was simply “Nanna” the one who called me “Bujji” with endless affection. When I’d tease or question him, he’d gently end the conversation with a smile: “Neku teledhu kabbati chepta, Bujji” (“I’m telling you because you don’t know yet, little one”). Whenever I fell ill, his concern knew no bounds; he moved mountains to make me well again. Every time I came home, he was there at the airport receiving me with open arms, sending me off with the same care, and making sure I felt truly cherished.

Only now, in the week since he’s been gone, as I step into the shoes of family responsibility, do I truly understand the weight he carried so effortlessly, without a single complaint. We took his quiet strength for granted, never imagining he would leave us so soon.

Nanna, you were more than a father, you were our rock, our guide, our greatest teacher in life, love, and kindness. We miss your presence every moment: the laughter, the care, the way you saw the best in people and held relationships sacred.

We miss you deeply, and we love you forever. Thank you for being the extraordinary father you were.

Rest in eternal peace.

Your loving family.