A scholar, historian and soulful friend-Tribute to Madabhushi Krishna Prasad

The world of Telugu literature and journalism history has lost a dedicated researcher and a profound scholar. Madabhushi Krishna Prasad (72), a retired teacher and prolific author, breathed his last in the early hours of April 8, 2026, in Palakollu. He had been battling a lung infection for the past ten days, compounded by long-term diabetic complications. Our paths crossed in Palakollu through the renowned sculptor Uday Kumar Marlapudi, and what began as a casual introduction blossomed into a deep, soulful friendship. Armed with a B.A. in literature and an M.A. in history, he began his career as a secondary grade teacher in government schools.

A legacy in print

Krishna Prasad was a "Bahu Granthakarta" (author of many books). His most significant contribution is "Bharatiya Patrikaranga Charitra" (History of Indian Journalism), a reference work published by Navachetana. He later expanded this into English as "History of Indian Journalism," which was launched in Patna by the Chairman of the Bihar Legislative Council and the State Labor Minister.

At the time of his passing, he was serving on the expert committee of the C. Raghavachari Media Academy of Andhra Pradesh. He penned biographies of iconic figures, including Shankar (the legendary cartoonist of Shankar's Weekly). Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. Anne Frank and Marie Curie.

Tributes from the fraternity

D. Somasundar, Secretary General of the Indian Journalists Union (IJU), expressed deep shock at the loss. He recalled how Krishna Prasad would call him several times a week to discuss editorial trends and the 11th IJU Plenary held in Vijayawada. Beyond his serious scholarly pursuits, Krishna Prasad was known for his sharp wit and sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Jayanti (an English teacher), and two sons.  His mortal remains were cremated on the afternoon of April 8th. Madabhushi Krishna Prasad’s untimely demise is an irreparable loss to Telugu literature, journalism research, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing his scholarly soul.

Madabhushi Sridhar,

Dean, School of Law, 

Mahindra University.