Ramadasu

Ramadasu, also known as Kancharla Gopanna, was a 17th-century Indian devotee of the Hindu deity Rama and a composer of Carnatic music. He is renowned for his devotional songs, known as *padyams*, dedicated to Lord Rama. Ramadasu lived in the region of Telangana, India, and served as a Tahsildar (revenue collector) in the court of the Nawab of Golconda.

According to tradition, Ramadasu was inspired by a vision of Rama and Sita and began using his official position to construct a temple for the deities at Bhadrachalam. He is said to have used government funds for this purpose, which led to his imprisonment by the Nawab. While incarcerated, he continued to compose devotional songs expressing his faith and longing for divine intervention.

Legend has it that Lord Rama and his consort Sita, disguised as common men, paid Ramadasu's debt to the Nawab, securing his release. This event further solidified his devotion and reputation as a true servant of Rama. His compositions, often referred to as *Ramadasu Keertanalu*, are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and profound spiritual sentiment. They continue to be sung and revered by devotees of Rama across India, particularly in the Telugu-speaking states. Ramadasu's life story is seen as an example of unwavering faith and devotion.