On the occasion of the 30th Vardhanthi of the legendary actor, statesman and cultural icon Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR), members of the Nandamuri family, film celebrities, political leaders and thousands of fans paid rich floral tributes at the NTR statue in Film Nagar.
Remembering the “Viswa Vikhyatha Nata Sarvabhouma”, prominent personalities from various departments of the Telugu film industry gathered to honour the man who redefined Telugu cinema and Telugu self-respect. The statue of NTR was adorned with garlands as heartfelt tributes poured in from admirers across cinema and politics.
Veteran film personality Kaja Surya Narayana said,
“NTR garu is number one in the history of Telugu cinema. If he had not founded the Telugu Desam Party on that historic day, many people would not have reached the positions they hold today. NTR and ANR are the two eyes of the Telugu film industry. My wish is that a statue of Akkineni Nageswara Rao garu should also be installed, and I request the elders of the industry to take this forward.”
Social activist Madala Ravi said,
“Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao is the great personality who took the pride of the Telugu race to the world. He brought recognition to Telugu people and Telugu cinema. He truly deserves the Bharat Ratna, and we all should work together to make that happen.”
Writer Paruchuri Gopalakrishna said,
“Just like the dialogue NTR delivered in the film Mana Desam, he climbed step by step to the greatest heights. Even after 30 years of his passing, he feels alive among us. We never feel that Annagaru is no more.”
Director Tammareddy Bharadwaja said,
“NTR is the man who elevated the self-respect of Telugu people. He lived without selfishness. There is no experiment, no role, no story that he did not attempt in cinema. Remembering him only on his birth and death anniversaries is not enough. We must have the courage to follow his ideals in cinema and politics. Only then will his legacy truly live on.”
Actor Prasanna Kumar said,
“NTR is a training ground for every actor. Every actor and every political leader should take him as an inspiration. He is the one who showcased the valour and pride of Telugu people to the world.”
Director YVS Chowdary said,
“Statues are erected only for great personalities so that future generations know their history. Some legendary souls are remembered not by birth and death, but by Jayanti and Vardhanthi. NTR is one such great soul. As the god of the silver screen, he rose to the top with dedication, discipline and hard work, and gave global identity to the Telugu race.”
Nandamuri Janakiram’s wife Deepika, Mohana Roop and other family members participated in the programme and fondly recalled their cherished memories with NTR.
The event stood as a powerful reminder of NTR’s everlasting legacy in cinema, politics and the hearts of Telugu people.
