Makineni Basavapunnaiah (1914–1992), fondly known as MB, was a pivotal figure in the Indian Communist movement. A member of the first Politburo of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], he played an instrumental role in shaping the party’s ideology and strategy during its formative years.
Early Life and Political Awakening
Born on December 14, 1914, in Toorpupalem village, near Repalle in Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, MB hailed from a modest agrarian background. He completed his Bachelor of Arts degree from Andhra Christian College, Guntur, in 1936. Influenced by the Indian independence movement and disillusioned with the Congress leadership’s policies, he joined the Communist Party of India (CPI) in 1934.
Rise within the Communist Party
MB’s political journey commenced at the grassroots level in Guntur district. By 1940, he had become the district secretary of the CPI. His leadership extended to the All India Student Federation, where he served as the state secretary from 1937 to 1940. In 1943, he was elected to the Andhra Pradesh Provincial Committee and its secretariat. He participated in the Telangana Rebellion and was inducted into the CPI’s Central Committee during its Second Congress in 1948. In June 1950, he was elevated to the Politburo, the party’s highest decision-making body.
National and International Engagement
MB’s influence extended beyond regional politics. He served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from April 3, 1952, to April 2, 1966. He also represented the CPI at international forums, including the 40th anniversary celebrations of the October Revolution in Moscow in 1957. Notably, he was part of a four-member Indian Communist delegation that met Joseph Stalin in 1950 to discuss the future of the Telangana Rebellion
The CPI Split and Founding of CPI(M)
The ideological rift within the CPI culminated in its split in 1964. MB was among the founding members of the CPI(M), which emerged as a more ideologically orthodox faction. He continued to serve in the Politburo and was the editor of the party’s central organ, People’s Democracy, contributing to its theoretical and policy discourse
Legacy and Remembrance
MB’s contributions to Indian politics and Marxist theory are commemorated through various initiatives. In Vijayawada, the Makineni Basavapunnaiah Vignana Kendra Auditorium hosts cultural and literary events, reflecting his commitment to education and cultural preservation . His centenary in 2014 was marked by discussions on his role in the international communist movement, highlighting his strategic acumen and theoretical contributions
Makineni Basavapunnaiah’s life exemplifies the intersection of ideology and action. His steadfast commitment to Marxist principles and his pragmatic approach to political challenges have left an indelible mark on India’s political landscape.
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Last Updated on: Friday, October 3, 2025 4:36 pm by Republic Business Team | Published by: Republic Business Team on Friday, October 3, 2025 4:36 pm | News Categories: News
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