Telugu Literary Profiles-14

[In this series, Dr. Chengalva Ramalakshmi and Mr. Boddapati Chandrasekhar introduce renowned Telugu short story writers.]

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From Air Force Wings to Poetic and Literary Strings: The Boundless Journey of Bhuvana Chandra:

The title simply sums up Sri Bhuvana Chandra’s professional as well as literary life.

Bhuvana Chandra: A Literary and Musical Journey

Early Life and Background

Birthplace:

Gullapudi village, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh.

Upbringing and Education:

Spent his childhood and school years in Chintalapudi, West Godavari District.

Formative Years:

Until the age of 16, he spent most of his time resting and sleeping. However, a profound silver lining to this seemingly idle period was his passionate romance with books. He spent four hours a day devouring everything available at the local library and spent the rest of his time immersed in the serene atmosphere of the..Viswanatha Ashram..

Higher Education:

Completed his PUC.. at the Government Arts College in Srikakulam.

Indian Air Force:

Enlisted in 1968 and dedicated 18 years of honorable service, retiring in 1986.

War Veteran:

Proudly participated in the..1971 Indo-Pak War, earning four distinguished war medals for his service.

Musical Career as a Lyricist

The Transition to Madras:

Moved to Madras in December 1986 and penned his very first song on January 1, 1987.

Debut Film:

Naaku Pellam Kaavali

Music Director: Saluri Vasu Rao

Career Span:

A prolific lyricist actively crafting memorable songs for nearly 40 years.

Collaborations:

Has written timeless lyrics for legendary icons – including Bhanumathi, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Shobhan Babu, Krishna, Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, Balakrishna, Nagarjuna, Kamal Haasan, and Rajinikanth – and continues to write for the younger generation of actors today.

Literary Pursuits

Beyond his celebrated work as a lyricist, Bhuvana Chandra is a versatile story writer, novelist, poet, essayist, and columnist.

Journalism: Served as a columnist for prominent newspapers, including Eenadu.

Published Works:

Authored 18 novels and story collections, with four currently in print.

Bothaandamrutham, Sri Bodha, Manasu Porallo, Moodo Seetha Katha, Mayanagaram, Mahathi, The Untold Stories, and Bhuvanachandra Kathalu in two parts.

Current Project:

Actively writing the ongoing serial titled ‘Jivitam O Prayanam‘ (Life is a Journey) for the Sanchika web magazine.

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A Poetic Metaphor :

If we were to compare Bhuvana Chandra’s creative songwriting to a jasmine creeper, it continuously blossoms with fresh buds and abundant clusters of flowers. Radiating wonderful emotional fragrances, his songs forever mesmerize and enchant listeners.

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Now let’s understand his KATHAA SILPAM (Narrative Technique) by analysing some of his stories.

Story: 1 Prema (Love)

Synopsis:

The essence of this story is beautifully encapsulated in Acharya Atreya’s immortal lyric:

“Man needs friendship, the heart thirsts for affection.

Without it, there is no life; there is no true living.

Without the sweetness of love, life turns bitter.”

The story is, in fact, a moving illustration of this profound truth.

Context 1

“I was looking at the Taj Mahal in Agra. ‘How magnificent it is!’ I exclaimed.

‘Indeed. It is one of the wonders of the world,’ she replied with a smile, her thoughts perfectly resonating with mine.

‘Why are you smiling?’ I asked.

‘Yes, it is truly a wonder. But perhaps human life is not so wonderful.’

‘Why do you say that?’

‘Because, like human life, even this monument is impermanent.’”

The story opens with this reflective conversation.

There are moments in life when our deepest emotions unexpectedly overflow. At such times, the listener need not be a close friend or even an acquaintance. A complete stranger may first become a sympathetic listener and, before long, someone who seems to share the very rhythm of our heart.

Context 2

Consider the depth contained in this sentence:

“It struck me as strange that, instead of admiring the beauty before her eyes, she looked at this magnificent monument as though it were merely a ruin.”

What appears strange to the narrator is perfectly natural to certain people. They possess an inward vision that enables them to perceive things in their essential reality, stripped of external splendour. Their penetrating insight reaches the very core of existence.

This single sentence carries remarkable philosophical depth. It instantly reminds us of John Keats’s concept of melancholy:

“She dwells with Beauty – Beauty that must die.”

Like Keats, Bhuvana Chandra suggests that beauty is inseparable from transience. To Saraswati, the Taj Mahal is not merely a monument of eternal love but also a poignant reminder of mortality and loss.

Context 3

Bhuvana Chandra defines love through Saraswati’s words:

“Love is like a plant. Just as a plant flourishes only when it is watered every day, the plant of love within the human heart grows only when love is constantly expressed. When we continue to love and experience love, that little plant blossoms into a magnificent monument of love.”

Whether personal or universal, love is the invisible force that binds humanity together. It inspires us, moves us, sustains us, and gives meaning to our existence. Every living being longs for it because love is the driving force behind human life.

The author concludes this reflection through Saraswati’s poignant words:

“But love must be sincere..”

She pauses.. and lets out a deep sigh.

That single sigh reveals everything she has lost. Without narrating her entire past, the author allows one word to unveil her emotional landscape. This is true artistic craftsmanship – expressing profound meaning through the simplest expression.

Though she received love from her husband, it lacked sincerity. Her sigh mirrors a heart parched for genuine affection and speaks of disappointment, disillusionment, and emotional desolation.

Context 4

As their conversations deepen, they begin to understand one another. She learns that he is unmarried; he comes to know that she is divorced. Circumstances compel them to stay in the same hotel.

The narrator’s integrity and self-restraint are revealed through this touching moment:

“She turned slightly towards me. Her sari slipped a little.. A fleeting desire arose within me – ‘What if I embraced her?’.. But my sense of values awakened me, and I instantly withdrew that thought.”

That moment of self-control speaks volumes about his character. True love is never driven by impulse; it is governed by respect, dignity, and moral discipline.

Context 5

Dear readers, what happened next?

Did their acquaintance remain merely a friendship? Or did it blossom into something deeper?

To discover the answer, you must read the story yourself.

Let me leave you with its concluding lines:

“One day in October, a letter arrived in my hands. As though the Taj Mahal itself bore witness, another tiny symbol of love lay smiling in my lap. What name shall I give this little one?”

The ending gently invites the reader to complete the emotional journey.

Context 6

A sensitive writer creates not only memorable characters but also a living atmosphere. Bhuvana Chandra carefully recreates the cultural and geographical setting of Agra through vivid sensory details.

The aroma of sweets drifting from the famous Taj sweet shops.. the bustling Lalajis.. horse-drawn tongas.. rickshaws.. handcarts.. warm quilts.. bustling bazaars..

Such details transport us effortlessly into the time, place, and mood of the narrative. They are not mere descriptions but integral elements of the story’s artistic texture.

A Final Spark

The word “ruins” (or “remains”) generally denotes the remnants of ancient structures. In the context of the Taj Mahal, it may also suggest the mortal remains of Mumtaz.

Within this story, however, the word acquires a deeper symbolic significance. It represents the shattered remnants of Saraswati’s married life – the painful memories of a relationship that has collapsed into emotional ruins.

Such layered symbolism is one of the hallmarks of Bhuvana Chandra’s artistic brilliance.

Story: 2 (Gothram)

Context: 1

“..My mother is a teacher in the village government school. I know nothing about my father.”

The statement made by the protagonist Yogi, saying he knows nothing about his father, instantly sparks curiosity in the readers.

Context: 2

“Life is like a river. Many people simply sit on the bank and watch its flow. But people like my mother go against the current, reach their envisioned destination, and achieve their desired goals.”

These words show readers how courageous Yogi’s mother is, also introducing her strong determination.

When Yogi tells his mother what his colleague Sumitra said about her – “Your mother is great, Mr. Yogi. She is one in a million” – look at how the mother reacts:

“Yogi.. always remember one thing. Just because ten people call something ‘great,’ it doesn’t make it the absolute truth, nor do you need to puff up your collar. Similarly, just because a hundred people call us ‘good-for-nothings,’ we don’t need to shrink and wither away in despair.”

What we are is really known well to us only. We are our own best self-appraisers.

Perhaps none can evaluate our actions and judge us better than we ourselves do.

The true assessment of our character, virtues and abilities should emerge within us.

That’s the proper study of ourselves.

Her words have universal sanctity and appeal.

Context: 3

Sumitra is Yogi’s colleague. They like each other and decide to get married. One day, Sumitra brings her parents to Yogi’s house. After the warm welcomes, hospitality, and refreshments, Sumitra’s father asks, “What is your Gothram?” This question puts Yogi’s mother in an awkward position. When she replies that it is not that important, and they insist on knowing.. the result is their departure.

Yogi is unhappy that his mother keeps this matter a mystery, yet he never talks back to her.

Context: 4

“Yogi! Take a week off and come over immediately,” she said on the phone, prompting him to rush there headlong. From there, Yogi visits the village of Nagamani, their former landlady from his childhood.

They were astonished by Nagamani when she opened the door. Where had all that beauty and health gone?

Coming like a whirlwind, Nagamani embraced him and burst into tears, crying aloud. “Come, my dear sister-in-law.. look.. how my fate has been ruined!” – saying this, she led them into a room. There lay Yogi’s mother.. a mere skeleton with her hands and legs tied to wooden posts. Whose fate is this again?! They felt as though their heads were spinning.

Context: 5

Upon learning that this tragic state was caused by the brutal assault of some savage men, Yogi is left shell-shocked. With his mother’s love, affection, and tender nursing care, Nagamani slowly returned to her normal self.

The words spoken through Yogi’s mother, Saraswati, beautifully capture her sublime human facets, making her a true embodiment of humanity.

Such a noble soul exists among human beings..

For those who wonder if such a thing is even possible!! – reader applause must be showered upon Sri Bhuvanachandra for crafting a mother character with such an exalted and uniquely rare virtue.

Here are her words:

“Yogi.. your marriage stopped simply because of ‘Gothram’.. Are you angry with me because I didn’t tell you this single small matter earlier..//.. The very same atrocity that happened to me has happened again. You are the result of that. Now tell me.. whose Gothram should I tell you? Whose lineage am I supposed to name? What sin did you commit for which you should be punished?”

What words can possibly come out from Yogi’s mouth? Can anyone even utter a word? Tell us, dear readers!

Two years passed. Then one day at the hospital.. again –

“Uncle,” she looked at me and burst into tears.

I held her tight, pressing her against my chest as our hearts melted into one.. right beside her was ‘our baby,’ born just half an hour ago.. looking just like me..

Does the author need to tell us how spring blossomed back into life during those bygone days, and how radiant it was? Or should we perceive it ourselves?

That is why he subtly and gracefully said.. “Need I say anything more?”

Epilogue:

“The mother who bore mothers, the primeval mother of the triads..”—chanting the praise of the supreme goddess, the embodiment of primordial energy, the ultimate deity, her power, and Durga, how can anyone ignore the verses spoken by Potana?

The character portrayal in Sri Bhuvanachandra’s stories is always magnificent. They stand before us as sublime, dignified, mature, and wondrous literary sculptures.

Sometimes, they are like the moon shown on a broken glass as Chekhov would portray them.

Story: 3 Inkem Cheppali..! (What More Can I Say..!)

Context: 1

“Her beauty is wonderful.

“A dwarf in height.. enchanting in form!

Notice how delightful the style is when Sri Bhuvanachandra introduces the character of Saraswati.

“Her beauty is wonderful.

A dwarf in height.. enchanting in form. Stately limbs..

Notice how he uses contrast for such a description. Comparing her graceful gait with the ripples inside a water-filled pot is a wonderful comparison. It is an experience known to everyone.

Context: 2

Look at her personality and the flow of her thoughts:

“..Born in a great family.. studied a great education. How many.. she does not just smile and keep quiet at any relation that comes; she says yes or no..”

Reading this brings two kinds of feelings to the readers:

Her firm opinion about marriage.

What does “great” mean to anyone? In what way is it great?

Context: 3

As the narrator’s friend introduces him to her:

“..Sir, this is the Buddha avatar (incarnation). He forgets everything if he has to tell someone that injustice should not happen to women. He picks on the remaining half. Live and let live!”

How wonderful is the way the narrator’s nature and his good traits are described effortlessly while making fun of him! The pure mind and crystal-clear thoughts behind the words “this Buddha avatar..” become apparent. This is what brings him closer to her heart, giving him a special place in it.

Context: 4

After about ten years, the narrator saw her while walking with his colleague. Then he couldn’t believe the words his colleague spoke. Look at those words…

“She became Juliet’s balcony, and we became Romeos..”

Realizing that he spoke like that from his own experience, the narrator was astonished.

He meets her.

Context: 5

// “I know you will recognize me and come back. Looking through the car mirrors yesterday, I saw your friend.” //

She has told you about Nagari.

Look at how innocent, graceful, and soul-refreshing it is! She is not a person who speaks with one thing in her heart and another on the outside.

The narrator’s response:

// “May the sky change.. may the moonlight change.. may you change..” //

These words are proof of his clear and good opinion of his female friends.

Context: 6

Countless conversations swung on cradles.

“What is love?” she asked.

“Should I not speak.. What can I say?

 Is it something pure, having no relation to the body?.. Touch is a wonderful blessing given by nature.. To express with a small touch a feeling that countless words cannot tell..!”

Bhuvana Chandra has beautifully put in simple words the concept of Platonic Love.

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Bhuvana Chandra is a man of rare sensitivity and deep feeling. A tireless wanderer through life, he has embraced a multitude of professions, gathered a wealth of experiences, and constantly experimented and explored in the world of writing. This remarkable journey has gradually shaped him into a philosopher.

There is unmistakable warmth in his gaze and an abiding affection in his words. To converse with him is to experience solace; it is like breathing in a gentle fragrance that lingers long after the conversation ends. Above all, he is a man with a compassionate heart. Every now and then, those qualities – the warmth, the wisdom, and the humanity that define him – touch me deeply and leave an enduring impression.

A versatile writer, actor and many more.

Conclusion:

What began as a voracious appetite for reading naturally evolved into an omnivorous pen, allowing Bhuvana Chandra to transition seamlessly across lyrics, novels, essays, and columns without ever being confined to a single genre.

Listen to his love for literature and litterateurs.

“I have read thousands of books and observed the diversity across many languages. Having read world literature for the past 60 years, I have not found writers as diverse as those in the Telugu language anywhere else. I love Hindi songs deeply, especially the old classics. I have profound love for Sri Viswanatha Satyanarayana, Sri Kodavatiganti Kutumba Rao, and above all, Kopparapu poets who not only wrote a thousand and two novels but also brilliantly mastered the craft of reading for audiences.”

🌹🌹🌹

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Dr. Chengalva Ramalakshmi is a Telugu lecturer and a researcher on the works of Gurajada Apparao. Her writings – ranging from literary essays, short stories, poetry, to spiritual articles – have appeared in various journals and magazines. Her published works include the short story collection Chengalva Poolu, and two biographical-literary studies: Mahakavi Gurajada Apparao and Mahakavi Joshua: Life and Literature.

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Boddapati Chandrasekhar is an English lecturer and literary essayist. He contributes to Antaryami.. a Spiritual Column in Eenadu. In an online daily titled Kathavalokanam, he analyzes and reviews short stories by various writers. So far, he has evaluated around 60 stories by 20 noted Telugu short story writers under this column. He also writes literary essays and book reviews.