Kasu Brahmananda Reddy

Freedom Fighter, Administrator and Architect of Modern Andhra Pradesh

Early Life and Education

Kasu Brahmananda Reddy was born on 28 July 1909 in Chirumamilla village of Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, to Shri S. Kasu Venkata Krishna Reddy and Smt. Chhayamma. After completing his graduation and LLB, he began his legal practice in 1933. From his student days, he was deeply involved in the Indian National Movement and underwent rigorous imprisonment for his participation in the freedom struggle.

Entry into Public Life

At the young age of 27, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy entered active politics and was elected President of the Guntur District Board. His leadership abilities soon earned him wider recognition. In March 1946, he was elected to the Madras Provincial Assembly, where he served as a legislator for six years.

Role in Andhra Pradesh Government

Following the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1956, he was inducted into the State Cabinet and held key portfolios including Finance and Planning. His administrative acumen and vision for development played a vital role in shaping the young state.

Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh

In 1964, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy was elected Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. His tenure marked a period of industrial growth and infrastructure development. Several major Central and State projects were initiated during his leadership, including:

• Development of the Tungabhadra High Level Canal Project
• Construction of the rail-cum-road bridge over the Godavari River
• Creation of the South Central Railway Zone
• Establishment of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant
• Modernisation of the Visakhapatnam Port and Harbour

He was also instrumental in setting up major Public Sector Undertakings such as BHEL, IDPL, ECIL and BDL, which generated large-scale employment and strengthened the industrial base of the state.

Social Welfare and Decentralised Governance

A committed social reformer, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy initiated several welfare measures, including distribution of house sites and construction of pucca houses for landless and backward classes. He played a key role in the strengthening of Panchayati Raj institutions and Zilla Parishads, thereby promoting grassroots democracy and decentralised administration.

He resigned from the office of Chief Minister on 24 September 1971.

Service at the National Level

In 1972–73, he was appointed Chairman of the Sixth Finance Commission, reflecting the confidence reposed in his financial and administrative expertise. Subsequently, he was inducted into the Union Cabinet, where he served as Minister for Communications and later as Union Home Minister.

Governorship and Final Years

In 1988, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy was appointed Governor of Maharashtra, a position he held with dignity and impartiality. He passed away on 20 May 1994, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service and nation-building.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of his contributions to India’s freedom struggle, public administration, and the development of Andhra Pradesh, India Post is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Kasu Brahmananda Reddy, honouring a life devoted to service, integrity and progress.