Veteran lyricist and father of MM Keeravani, Siva Shakthi Datta passes away at 92

A multi-talented man, Datta was not just a lyricist but also a painter and musician who could play instruments like the guitar, sitar, and harmonium. His philosophical outlook and love for classical art inspired many young artists.

Hyderabad: Celebrated Telugu lyricist and writer Siva Shakthi Datta, father of Oscar-winning music composer MM Keeravaani, passed away at his home in Manikonda on July 7, 2025. He was 92 and had been unwell due to age-related health problems.

Datta, born Koduri Subbarao in 1932, was known for his poetic verses that gave soul to many iconic Telugu films. He penned unforgettable lyrics for blockbusters like Baahubali, RRR, Magadheera, Rajanna, and Sri Ramadasu. Songs such as “Mamathala Thalli,” “Anjandri Theme Song,” “Amma Avani,” and “Raamam Raghavam” remain classics for their rich language and mythological touch. Apart from the classics a clut fan base was formed for songs like “Nalla Nallani Kalla” from Sye and “Agni Skalana, Mannela Thintivira” from Chatrapathi which till date resonate with our hearts.

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Datta’s creative journey was full of passion for the arts. Originally from Kovvur near Rajahmundry, he was born into a family that loved art and culture. He left his studies midway at C.R. Reddy College, Eluru, and moved to Mumbai to pursue painting at the Sir JJ School of Art. He then returned home as an artist under the pen name Kamalesh before embracing his spiritual name, Siva Shakthi Datta.

His love for cinema brought him to Madras, where he assisted directors and even began a film called Pillanagrovi, which was shelved. His first major break came through legendary filmmaker K Raghavendra Rao, who trusted him with assignments that shaped his career. Datta’s lyrics for Janaki Ramudu in 1988 became a turning point. Along with penning the lyrics he also took up the role as a screenwriter for Janaki Ramudu.

Alongside his son Keeravaani, Datta’s words added depth to many big films, including Sye, Chatrapathi, Hanu-Man, RRR, and both Baahubali parts. He also directed Chandrahas in 2007.

A multi-talented man, Datta was not just a lyricist but also a painter and musician who could play instruments like the guitar, sitar, and harmonium. His philosophical outlook and love for classical art inspired many young artists.

The Telugu film world is in mourning as heartfelt tributes continue to pour in. His final rites will be held in Hyderabad today.