UPSC Telugu Literature Syllabus 2025, Paper 1 & 2

UPSC Telugu Literature Syllabus for UPSC Mains preparation provides students with a clear and in-depth knowledge about the Telugu Literature culture. The Telugu Literature Optional addresses the interests related to the language and education. The syllabus covers various genres and periods in Telugu Literature from classical tests to modern writings as well as critical essays. The students will be expected to study all historical contexts, literary movements and thematic elements. From ancient poetic compositions to modern prose, the UPSC Telugu syllabus helps students develop their analytical skills as well as interpretive capabilities. In this article, we are going to cover the UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Syllabus for both Paper 1 and Paper 2. 

UPSC Telugu Literature Syllabus 2025

The UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Syllabus is divided into two papers- Paper 1 and Paper 2. Both papers carry 250 marks each. UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Paper 1 covers the development of Telugu literature, importance of crucial literary works in their historical context and development of classical and medieval literature. Paper 2 of UPSC Telugu literature  covers contemporary literature, including poetry, prose and literary criticism. The paper covers contemporary writers and current news in literature. 

UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Syllabus for Paper 1

UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Syllabus for Paper 1 covers the history and development of Telugu language and literature. The paper covers the study of development of Telugu Language, origin and influences on the language.  The syllabus provides an in-depth analysis of classical Telugu literature, including significant works like Nannaya Mahabharatam and Vemana Padyalu, highlighting their literary and cultural significance. It also examines modern literary contributions from the 19th and 20th centuries, along with their prominent authors and works. Additionally, the syllabus explores the rich tradition of Telugu folk literature and its integration into mainstream narratives. Paper 1 of the UPSC Telugu Literature syllabus also encompasses fundamental aspects of Telugu grammar, along with its application

UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Syllabus for Paper 2

The UPSC Mains Telugu Literature syllabus for paper 2 covers particular genres, critical works and an elaborate study on poets. This syllabus encompasses drama, highlighting key playwrights like Gurajada Apparao and critically examining their works within a socio-political context. The prose section explores significant fiction and non-fiction, including essays and short stories. Literary criticism is a core component of this paper. Additionally, Paper 2 of the UPSC Telugu Literature Syllabus delves into contemporary trends and movements, analyzing the impact of globalization and technological advancements on modern Telugu literary works. Below is the UPSC Telugu Literature Optional Syllabus for Paper 1 and Paper 2, structured in tables for better clarity.

UPSC Telugu Language Paper Syllabus Best Books

The following list of books can help you prepare for UPSC Telugu Language Paper Syllabus: 

• “History of Telugu Literature” by Biruduraju Ramaraju is a treasure of historical analysis of Telugu literature. 
• “Telugu Sahitya Charitra” by Viswanatha Satyanarayana is an excellent analytical piece on the literary developments and movements during various eras. 
• “Telugu Kavitvam – A Comprehensive Study” by Pullela Sriramachandrudu is perfect for a detailed study on the poetic forms and the themes. 
• “Nannaya’s Mahabharatam” is essential as a primary text in classical literature. 
• “Modern Telugu Literature” by Arudra and “Complete Works of Gurajada Apparao” are some of the modern literary works. 
• “Telugu Sahityam” by Kandukuri Veeresalingam, “Vemana Padyalu,” and critical essays and literary reviews through periodicals and anthologies are also extremely useful.