From Marginalization to Autonomy: The Struggle for a Separate Andhra State
Sr No:
Page No:
37-40
Language:
English
Authors:
Hari Charan Pelluri* & Dr. G. Somasekhara
Received:
2026-04-09
Accepted:
2026-05-14
Published Date:
2026-05-29
Abstract:
The Separate Andhra Movement, which emerged within the Madras Province during the early 20th century, played a crucial
role in the formation of the Andhra Pradesh state post-independence. It was a significant chapter in the history of regional politics in
India, driven by the linguistic and cultural aspirations of the Telugu-speaking people who felt marginalized within the Madras
Presidency, where they were under the dominance of Tamil political and cultural influences. This paper examines the origins of the
movement, its evolution, key leaders, events, and the political negotiations that culminated in the creation of Andhra Pradesh. It also
explores the role of the Indian National Congress, the opposition to the movement, and the eventual triumph of the Telugu-speaking
people's demands. The movement had far-reaching implications for regional autonomy and set a precedent for the linguistic
reorganization of states in post-colonial India.
Keywords:
Separate Andhra Movement, Madras Province, Telugu-speaking people, Indian National Congress, linguistic reorganization, Andhra Pradesh, regional autonomy, Dravidian politics, anti-Tamil sentiments, historical movements.