Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is a regional Indian political party with nationalistic principles and ethos founded in 1982 by Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR).
NTR, the founder of the TDP, drawing inspiration from the Buddhist doctrine- ‘Sangham Saranam Gacchami’ (I go to the Sangha for Refuge), believed and strongly advocated “సమాజమే దేవాలయం – ప్రజలే దేవుళ్ళు” (The society is the temple – the people are the gods).
NTR strongly believes in democracy and once said “I am neither a socialist, nor a communist, nor a capitalist… I am a humanist.” Thus, humanistic and democratic principles are entrenched into the Telugu Desam Party’s vision. NTR also espouses that Telugu Desam Party is not just a political a party but a great people’s movement to liberate the poor from hunger and poverty and accord equity and justice.
In tune with this philosophy, the Party was built to ensure exponential, inclusive, and sustainable socioeconomic growth of the State of Andhra Pradesh. The Party intends to achieve its mission by involving people at the forefront, accompanied by a range of organisations, professionals, academicians, and experts for collective wisdom and actions. Therefore, the Party acts as a catalyst for the State’s and Country’s sustainable transformation.