Well known social worker Seshagiri Rao passes away

Vijayawada, Jul 19 (UNI) Well known social worker and wrestler Chennupati Seshagiri Rao died of heart attack here today.

He was 88 and is survived by his wife, Ch. Vidya, former MP from Vijayawada, a son and three daughters.

Mr Rao was an ardent champion of social change, a prominent figure in the motor transport field and a staunch nationalist who participated in the freedom movement. He also promoted inter-caste and casteless marriages and strengthened the secular and humanist foundations of the nation.

A multifaceted parsonality, Mr Rao was also a wrestler and acted as referee. He participated in the first Asian Games held in New Delhi and secured third place in weightlifting.

He championed nature cure and started the Mahatma Gandhi Health Centre to wean the younger generation away from vices. He was also active in politics and was a member of the Andhra Pradesh State Congress.

Recognising his yeoman service in the transport field, he was awarded ''Motor Ratna'' in the Motor Transport Congress held in New Delhi in 2000.

A number of people from various walks of life paid their last respects to him.

The last rites would be performed tomorrow, family sources said.

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