Potti Sreeramulu’s sacrifice played a pivotal role in the formation of the linguistic state of:

The correct answer is: a) Andhra Pradesh.

Potti Sreeramulu was an Indian independence activist and politician who is best known for his role in the formation of the state of Andhra Pradesh. He undertook a hunger strike in 1952 to demand the formation of a separate state for Telugu-speaking people, and died after 58 days. His death led to widespread protests and the eventual formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1956.

The other options are incorrect because:

• Telangana is a state in India that was formed in 2014. It was previously a part of Andhra Pradesh.
• Tamil Nadu is a state in India that was formed in 1956. It was previously a part of Madras Presidency.
• Kerala is a state in India that was formed in 1956. It was previously a part of Travancore-Cochin.