Indian soldier Peruka Raju Honoured with the NTR Memorial Poetry Award–2026
KARIMNAGAR, JULY 05, 2026: To promote and preserve the Telugu language, Vishwa Sahiti Kalavedika, a national literary, cultural, and social service organization that brings together poets from across the globe, successfully organized the “Sahiti Tarakam” National Poetry Competition on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the legendary actor, statesman, and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR).
The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation from poets across India and abroad, who paid tribute to NTR through their literary creations. The entries reflected the extraordinary personality of NTR as a pioneering actor, a visionary leader, a champion of the poor, and an enduring symbol of Telugu pride and self-respect.
Among the distinguished participants, the poem penned by Peruka Raju, a renowned national poet, author, and multilingual scholar, stood out for its depth of thought, literary excellence, and artistic expression. In recognition of its outstanding merit, he was selected to receive the prestigious “NTR Memorial Poetry Award–2026.”
The award was presented at a special ceremony held today at DKW Government Women’s Degree College, Nellore. The honour, comprising the NTR Memorial Poetry Award, a cash prize, a memento, a citation, and a ceremonial shawl, was presented by eminent Ghazal singer Ghazal Srinivas, Mrs. K. Ramavathi, President of Vishwa Sahiti Kalavedika, Mrs. Maheshwari, Vannam Brahmaiah, Kotamreddy, the local MLA, and other members of the organizing committee.
Peruka Raju has earned widespread recognition as a poet, author, and multilingual scholar, with admirers not only across India but also overseas. He is presently serving as a Junior Commissioned Officer in the Indian Army, where he continues to balance his professional responsibilities with his passion for literature. He is also the founder of My Gift Yuva Organisation, through which he actively engages in social service initiatives and inspires young people.
The conferment of the NTR Memorial Poetry Award–2026 upon  Peruka Raju has been widely appreciated by literary personalities, poets, artists, social activists, literature enthusiasts, and members of the military fraternity, who have extended their heartfelt congratulations on this remarkable achievement.
