“My name is Dasari Kondappa, and I am the last Burra Veena player from my village in Damaragidda, Narayanpet district, Telangana. This instrument has been in my family for over five generations—my father and grandfather taught me everything I know about this traditional folk culture. I have dedicated my life to keeping this unique art form alive, a responsibility I deeply cherish.
I perform songs that are woven into the fabric of our community—socio-religious songs like Tatvalu, devotional songs dedicated to various deities, folk songs that reflect our traditions, and nature-inspired songs that celebrate the beauty of the world around us using Burra Veena. My ancestors crafted the Burra Veena with their own hands, passing down their skills and knowledge through generations. It connects me to my roots and heritage in a way that is hard to explain.
When I sing songs with the Burra Veena, I feel like I am sharing a piece of my soul. However, it has not been an easy journey. As a member of a marginalized community, I have faced challenges and discrimination that have made me question everything. There have been times when I felt like giving up, but my love for my craft and heritage kept me going.
Being recognized with the Padma Shri award and meeting the honourable President of India was a moment of immense pride, but it is not just about me—it is about the importance of preserving our musical traditions. Every time I play the Burra Veena, I feel a deep connection to my ancestors and a responsibility to future generations to keep this artform alive.”