Article Today, Ranasthalam:
Vijayanagaram MP Kalishetti Appalanayudu, known for his simple lifestyle and devotion to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s family, was left pleasantly surprised when his young nephew flawlessly recited the family’s gotram during a temple ritual in Ranasthalam, Srikakulam district.
Devoted Follower of Chandrababu Naidu
Appalanayudu, a prominent Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader, has long been known for his deep reverence towards the Chief Minister. Since joining the TDP more than two decades ago, he has maintained a unique tradition of offering prayers at temples using the gotram of the Naidu family before that of his own. His gesture has often been cited by party colleagues as a mark of loyalty and affection towards his mentor.
The Temple Visit at Ranasthalam
On Tuesday, Appalanayudu visited a local Shiva temple in his native Ranasthalam along with his family members. The MP, who is also known for cycling to Parliament as a symbol of simplicity and environmental awareness, participated in special archana rituals. The event was attended by family and close followers.
A Remarkable Moment
During the ritual, the presiding priest asked for the family’s gotram details. Before Appalanayudu could respond, his seven-year-old nephew, Pranavith Sai Manikantha, promptly listed the gotrams of the Chief Minister’s family — N. Chandrababu Naidu, Nara Bhuvaneswari, Nara Lokesh, Brahmani, and Devansh — with complete accuracy.
The Family’s Reaction
The MP and his relatives were visibly astonished by the child’s memory and attentiveness. Appalanayudu expressed joy and pride at his nephew’s quick recall, describing it as a reflection of the family’s closeness to the ideals and legacy of the TDP leadership. The priest and devotees present at the temple were equally impressed by the young boy’s confidence.
A Tradition of Faith and Loyalty
For Appalanayudu, such gestures have become part of his personal expression of faith and political gratitude. Over the years, he has maintained this ritual across different temples, combining religious devotion with personal loyalty. The Ranasthalam episode, however, stood out as a touching reminder of how deeply this sentiment runs within his family.
