Tributes Pour In for Telugu Lyricist Siva Shakthi Datta Who Passed Away at 92
Siva Shakthi Datta: A Legacy in Telugu Cinema
Siva Shakthi Datta, the esteemed Telugu lyricist, writer, and filmmaker, passed away on the night of July 7 at the age of 92, succumbing to health issues related to aging. Renowned for his poetic and mythological lyrics, Datta's contributions have left a significant mark on Telugu cinema.
He was the father of the Academy Award-winning composer M.M. Keeravaani and the brother of the acclaimed screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad. Additionally, he was the uncle of notable figures in the industry, including filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, music composer M.M. Srilekha, and singer-composer Kalyani Malik.
Datta frequently collaborated with his son and brother on major films such as Baahubali, RRR, Magadheera, Sri Ramadasu, and Rajanna. His lyrical prowess is evident in timeless songs like 'Mamathala Thalli', 'Raamam Raghavam', 'Nalla Nallani Kalla', 'Saahore Baahubali', and 'Amma Avani.'
Beyond lyricism, he directed the film Chandrahas and wrote the screenplay for Janaki Ramudu, which starred Nagarjuna.
శ్రీ శివశక్తి దత్తా గారి ఆత్మకు శాంతి చేకూరాలి
— Deputy CMO, Andhra Pradesh (@APDeputyCMO) July 8, 2025
ప్రముఖ సంగీత దర్శకులు శ్రీ కీరవాణి గారి తండ్రి, రచయిత, చిత్రకారులు శ్రీ శివశక్తి దత్తా గారు కన్ను మూశారని తెలిసి చింతించాను. శ్రీ దత్తా గారి ఆత్మకు శాంతి చేకూరాలని భగవంతుణ్ణి ప్రార్థిస్తున్నాను. కళలు, సాహిత్యంపై ఎంతో అభిమానం…
Following his passing, numerous tributes emerged from the Indian film community. Actor and politician Pawan Kalyan shared his condolences, stating, 'I am deeply saddened by the news of Shri Siva Shakthi Datta's passing, father of music director Keeravani. I pray for his soul to find peace. He held immense respect for art and literature, making significant contributions to Telugu and Sanskrit lyricism. My heartfelt sympathies go out to Keeravani gaaru and his family during this difficult time.'