Kurma Venkata Reddy Naidu

Kurma Venkata Reddy Naidu Biography

Kurma Venkata Reddy Naidu was a lawyer, professor and politician from Eluru, Andhra Pradesh who lived during the period, 15 May 1875 - September 10, 1942. Naidu was a member of the Justice Party right from its inception. He served as the Chief Minister of Madras Presidency from 1 April 1937 to 14 July 1937 in British India, and was the last member as CM from Justice Party. He was appointed as Governor of Madras on 18 June 1936 and he served in this position till 1 October 1936, before he became CM in 1937. He also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Annamalai University in 1940.

Rao Bahadur Sir Kurma Venkatareddy Naidu was born into a Naidu family in Eluru, Andhra Pradesh on 15 May 1875. Drakharama of Madras Presidency was his hometown. He completed his graduation followed by Law studies, and then started his professional career as a lecturer. He served as the Professor of Physics at Rajahmundry Arts College, before he plunged into politics. He joined Justice Party in 1919-1920, and remained its loyal member since its inception. He also served as Minister of Development with T. N. Sivagnanam Pillai in 1923. Naidu served as India's agent to the Union of South Africa from 1929 to 1932.

He served as Governor of Madras from 18 June 1936 to 1 October 1936. He was appointed as Chief Minister on 1 April 1937, and he was on power for a brief period till 14 July 1937. He was active in his political career and social life after independence too. He served as an administrator for various educational institutions including Andhra University. As a social worker, he is best known for anti-Brahmin stand associated with his party, and he fought against social evils like untouchability, superstitions etc.

Published: November 29, 2018

Updated: November 29, 2018