Iconic lyricist Sirivennela Seetaramasastry being crowned Padma Shri has come as great news for the Telugu film industry and the Telugu States. He is one of the four Telugu people to have received the civilian honour.

"I will be indebted to the Telugu film industry, my directors and producers for giving me an opportunity to write so many songs. I also thank the blessings of the audience. Every poet has to be responsible for what he writes, for whom he writes. I never make a differentiate between my listeners on the basis of their intellect, age, etc. To me, a heart-touching lyric can touch the heart of any listener. A lyricist has to go beyond his brief to do complete justice for a song situation," Sirivennela told a news channel.

"It's important to encourage young lyricists. A lyricist who can't appreciate others' work, is not qualified to be one. That's why I always congratulate youngsters like Sri Mani. I make it a point to call them up and appreciate whenever they pen beautiful lines. For those of us in the creative world, more than remuneration, it's recognition that matters," he added.

He is an 11-time recipient of Nandi Award.