Renowned Lyricist-Writer Siva Shakthi Datta, Father of MM Keeravaani, Passes Away at 92; Industry Mourns
Hyderabad, Telangana – July 8, 2025 – The Telugu film industry is mourning the loss of celebrated lyricist and writer Siva Shakthi Datta, who passed away at his home in Manikonda on July 7th. Datta, renowned for his profound Sanskrit-based lyrics in Telugu films, was the father of music composer MM Keeravaani and the uncle of acclaimed director SS Rajamouli.
Siva Shakthi Datta was 92 years old and had been unwell for some time due to age-related issues. He passed away on Monday, with the news being publicly confirmed on Tuesday. Megastar Chiranjeevi was among the first to express his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), writing in Telugu, “The news that Sri Siva Shakthi Datta, a painter, scholar of the Sanskrit language, writer, storyteller, and multifaceted genius, has attained divine union has left me deeply shocked. Praying to the Almighty that his soul finds peace... I express my profound condolences to my friend Keeravani garu and his family members.” Superstar Mahesh Babu also paid his respects in person, highlighting the deep regard the industry held for Datta.
Born Koduri Subbarao in Kovvu, near Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, in 1932, Datta was a versatile talent—a lyricist, screenwriter, and painter. He penned iconic lyrics for numerous blockbuster films, including Baahubali, RRR, Magadheera, HanuMan, Sye, Rajanna, and Sri Ramadasu. Some of his memorable songs include "Anjandri Theme Song," "Amma Avani," "Raamam Raghavam," "Nalla Nallani Kalla," "Agni Skalana," and "Mannela Thintivira." Datta initially began his career under the pen name Kamalesh before adopting the name Siva Shakthi Datta.
His passion for cinema led him to Chennai (then Madras), where he assisted directors and even attempted to make a film titled Pillanagrovi. This journey culminated in his work as a screenwriter for the 1988 film Janaki Ramudu, collaborating with K Raghavendra Rao, who frequently entrusted him with lyrics for his films. In 2007, Datta also ventured into direction with the film Chandrahas.
Fans and celebrities alike took to social media to mourn his passing, celebrating his immense contributions to Telugu cinema and literature. His funeral was held in Hyderabad on Tuesday.
