Kunda Satyanarayana (born: 15 June, 1938) is founder-chairman of Kunda Satyanarayana Kala Dhamam, a Mythological Awareness Center, Surendrapuri, in Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district in the Indian state of Telangana.

^[1]His interest in Indian culture and mythology made Surendrapuri a center of artistic and sculptural excellence.

Surendrapuri is described as India's biggest mythological theme museum.

Spread over 18=acre, the museum recreates Hindu mythology through sculpture employing ultra-modern artistic techniques.

Personal life

Kunda Satyanarayana was born in Baswapuram, Khammam District, Telangana, into a poor family.

His father, Kunda Nagabhushanam, was a petty trader and a small farmer.

The fragrance of religious thoughts flowered in him from his family.

Kunda attended primary school in Baswapuram and studied Sanskrit literature.

He also studied Hindi and Urdu.

Due to lack of desired financial support, he had to quit further studies.

Later, he established himself as a successful businessman.

Experiencing many ups-and-downs, he attained 60 years of age.

At this stage, an intense desire grew in him to do something for the promotion of Indian culture and tradition.

He constructed ‘Surendrapuri Pancha-Mukha Hanumadeeshwar’ temple and Mythological Awareness Centre, a mythological museum.

It made him work for 12 years discussing the idea with different people and taking their views on his dream project.

^[0]

Awards and Honours

1. Kinnera Ugadi Award by Kinnera Art Theaters (2010)

2. Vamsi Ugadi Award by Vamshi (2016) ^[2]

3. Arya Vysya Award by Krishna District Arya Vysya Youth Council (2012)

4. Vasavi Achievement Award by Vasavi Club International (2011)

References:

1. Indian Express: God’s own museum

2. Eenadu Sunday magazine: Sankshipta theertham

3. Surendrapuri Website: www.surendrapuri.in

4. Heaven and hell on earth!