In a surprising and heartwarming twist, it has been revealed that the new Vice President of the United States, J.D. Vance, has strong ties to Andhra Pradesh, making him a “son-in-law” of the state. As the Republican Party candidate, Vance was recently confirmed as the U.S. Vice President after Donald Trump’s victory in the presidential election.
Vance, who has earned praise from Trump during his victory speech, is married to Usha Chilukuri, whose roots trace back to Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Usha, a proud Telugu woman, is the granddaughter of Professor Shantamma, a renowned Telugu language professor who recently retired from Andhra University. This makes Vance’s wife, Usha, part of a well-respected academic family from the region.
Professor Shantamma, now in her 90s, is highly respected in the Telugu community for her contributions to the field of education. Her late husband, Chilukuri Subrahmanyashastri, was also an esteemed figure in the academic world. Usha Chilukuri’s father, Radha Krishna, is the son of Shantamma’s brother, Ramashastri, further solidifying the family’s long-standing connections in the region.
Although Usha was born and raised in the United States after her parents moved there, her family in India has remained proud of her accomplishments. Upon hearing of her husband’s vice-presidential candidacy and his success, Professor Shantamma received numerous congratulatory calls from family and friends, celebrating this unique blend of Telugu heritage and American political achievement.
In addition to his political career, Vance’s connection to Andhra Pradesh serves as a reminder of the global influence and reach of Indian diaspora families, showcasing how cultural ties can span continents and generations.