Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy, better known as YSR, was a prominent Indian politician who served as the 14th Chief Minister of United Andhra Pradesh from 2004 to 2009. Born on July 8th, 1949 in Pulivendula, Andhra Pradesh, YSR pursued a career in medicine before entering politics. He completed his medical studies at Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College in Gulbarga, Karnataka and worked as a medical officer at CSI-Campbell Mission Hospital in Jammalamadugu, Kadapa district.
YSR's political career was marked by numerous victories. He was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Kadapa constituency for four terms and to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly for five terms from the Pulivendula constituency. In 2003, he undertook a three-month-long padayatra across several districts in Andhra Pradesh as part of his election campaign. This walking tour covered 1,475 kilometers (917 mi) during the hot summer months. His efforts paid off as he led his party to victory in the general and assembly elections held in 2004 and again in 2009.
Tragically, YSR's life was cut short when the helicopter he was traveling in went missing in the Nallamala Forest area on September 2nd, 2009. The wreckage was found the next morning on top of Rudrakonda Hill, 40 km (25 mi) from Kurnool. All five people aboard were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
YSR's legacy lives on through his contributions to Andhra Pradesh and Indian politics. His dedication to public service and his ability to connect with people continue to inspire many today.
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