Tirupati Bus Shelter Revived to Honor Veteran Leader V. Venkata Muni Chetty

A renovated bus shelter at Tirupati's iconic NTR Circle was inaugurated on Thursday, rekindling memories of the city’s past and celebrating the legacy of a local political stalwart. Leaders from across the political spectrum, including the TDP, BJP, Jana Sena, and YSR Congress, came together for the event, marking a rare show of unity. The shelter, originally built over two decades ago, has been transformed into a vibrant landmark at what locals still fondly call the "Town Club Circle" since the 1980s.

Tribute to V. Venkata Muni Chetty’s Legacy

The bus shelter was first developed in memory of V. Venkata Muni Chetty, who served as Vice-Chairman of Tirupati Municipality for an unprecedented 33 years. Chetty later became the inaugural Chairman of the Tirupati Urban Development Authority (TUDA) from 1980 to 1982. His son, V. Muniratnam, who served as Chairman of the Tirupati Municipal Council from 1987 to 1992, originally built the shelter to honor his father’s contributions.

The facility had fallen into disrepair over the years, becoming a quiet witness to Tirupati's evolution. However, Chetty’s grandson, V. Purandhar, spearheaded its revival as a tribute to both his grandfather and father.

Rare Political Unity at Inauguration

The event drew a wide array of political figures, underscoring Chetty’s enduring popularity and the respect he commanded across party lines. Attendees included Jana Sena MLA Arani Srinivasulu, AP Greening and Beautification Corporation Chairperson M. Sugunamma, TUDA Chairman C. Divakar Reddy, and BJP city president V. Varaprasad. Leaders from the TDP, such as J.B. Srinivas and former Deputy Mayor R.C. Munikrishna, as well as YSR Congress representatives, also participated.

During the ceremony, many leaders reminisced about their interactions with Chetty and highlighted how politics once fostered deep social connections, regardless of party affiliations.

A New Chapter for an Old Landmark

With the renovation complete, V. Purandhar has officially requested municipal authorities to open the facility to the public without delay. The revival of this bus shelter not only preserves a piece of Tirupati’s history but also serves as a reminder of the city’s communal spirit and the contributions of its past leaders.

Source: The Hindu