The Beggar
The Beggar
About the poet: Dr. Ammangi Venugopal is a creative genius. He is well aware of the
complexities and contradictions of modern life. He is the first recipient of “Kaloji
Narayana Rao” award from Telangana Government.
About the poem: The present moving poem “The Beggar” is actually Bichchagadu, a
Telugu poem, written by “Venugopal.” It is rendered into English by “Dr. N.Surendra.” It
depicts the complex problems faced by the farmers these days.
Topic: The poem projects the intense grief of the farmers’ suffering. A farmer to day is
misery incarnate. The poem identifies farmers with dark eyes that are filled with the
shadows of their struggles. Farmers, the food providers to all of us, starve and struggle
to survive. Their backs are bent, hands are soiled and feet bleed. Yet, they strive hard to
feed millions of people but remain with empty stomachs. The poet expresses his agony
and says that the modern society is responsible for the hunger of farmers. At last, he
reminds us to identify the poor farmers who come to our houses and wait for alms. He
requests us to show concern and try to help them.
Conclusion: The poem displays the complexities of current times, thus acquiring for
itself universal appeal. Thus, the lines play a significant role in introducing certain harsh
realities of our society.