Tenali Rama

Tenali Ramakrishna (born Garlapati Ramakrishna; 22 September 1480 – 5 August 1528), also known as Tenali Ramalinga and Tenali Rama, was a telugu poet, scholar, and advisor in the court of Sri Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hailing from Tenali, he earned acclaim as one of the Ashtadiggajas, a group of eight celebrated Telugu poets in Sri Krishnadevaraya's court, and is best known for his sharp wit and humour. His literary contributions include the notable work Panduranga Mahatmyam, which is regarded as one of the five great Telugu Kāvyas. He is often referred to by the title "Vikatakavi," meaning "jester poet," reflecting his unique ability to blend humour with wisdom. Tenali Ramakrishna's legacy continues to inspire various cultural adaptations in literature and media.