No foes, only pals: Leaders across party lines laud Dattatreya at his book launch
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Hyderabad: Chief minister A Revanth Reddy on Sunday offered a candid reflection on his political evolution, claiming that he studied at "Modi's school," graduated under Chandrababu Naidu in the TDP, and is now working with Rahul Gandhi in the Congress.
His remarks, made at the launch of Bandaru Dattatreya's autobiography 'The Story of the People is My Autobiography' at Shilpakala Vedika, drew attention for both their political significance and personal candor.
Praising the veteran BJP leader, Revanth described Dattatreya as a rare politician who has "no enemies, only friends," and highlighted his own warm relationship with Dattatreya and Union minister G Kishan Reddy.
"Dattatreya began his journey in Gowliguda and rose to become governor. He remains one of the most accessible leaders — even a roadside vendor could invite him to inaugurate a shop, and he wouldn't hesitate to attend," the CM remarked. Revanth also credited Dattatreya's Alai Balai initiative as an inspiration during the Telangana movement. "Though a BJP leader, this event was never perceived as a party programme," he said.
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Meanwhile, former Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu took a pointed swipe at present-day politics, saying, "Today, many politicians switch parties as easily as diapers are changed for babies." He praised Dattatreya as a shining exception — a leader who upheld values, consistency, and dignity. The event witnessed an impressive turnout of dignitaries, including former President Ram Nath Kovind, Kishan Reddy, former CJI NV Ramana, and several prominent leaders from both Telugu states.
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