Chiranjeevi Gets Emotional Remembering His First Film Punadhirallu
Legendary Telugu film icon Chiranjeevi took a moment this week to revisit the beginning of his distinguished acting career, sharing heartfelt memories of the very first day he stood before a movie camera. The post, shared on his social media account, offers fans a rare glimpse into the emotions the star felt at his entry into cinema nearly five decades ago.
For the actor, that initial shoot for Punadhirallu, the film that marked his first time working on a motion picture set, holds a special place in his life. Chiranjeevi described that moment as filled with a mixture of excitement, nervousness, and a deep sense of responsibility, feelings that, even after all these years, remain vividly etched in his mind.
Accompanying his remembrance were rare black-and-white photographs from the set of Punadhirallu, taken during the film’s shooting in 1979. The images show a young Chiranjeevi during his very first day of shooting, a powerful visual reminder of how far he has journeyed since those early days.
In his message, the megastar likened the experience to living a “beautiful full moon story,” a metaphor he used to convey how magical and surreal the moment felt to him. He admitted it is hard to put into words the swirl of feelings he had when he first stepped in front of the camera, but emphasized that the memory remains as fresh as if it happened only recently.
Chiranjeevi did more than reminisce; he also used the occasion to express gratitude to the individuals who believed in his potential at the start. He specifically thanked the director and producer of Punadhirallu for giving him the opportunity that ultimately laid the foundation for a remarkable acting career. According to the actor, their confidence and encouragement were crucial in those formative days.
He didn’t forget the people who made his long journey possible, his audience. In the post, Chiranjeevi acknowledged the support and blessings of his fans over the years, noting that their unwavering love has been a driving force throughout his rise from a newcomer to one of Telugu cinema’s most celebrated figures.
Although Punadhirallu was the first film Chiranjeevi worked on, it was not the first of his films to be released. That distinction belongs to Pranam Khareedu, but Punadhirallu remains significant as the project where he first faced the camera. It also went on to win recognition at the prestigious Nandi Awards, adding early accolades to his burgeoning career.
Today, decades after that first day of shooting, Chiranjeevi continues to be a towering presence in Indian cinema, his journey from a novice actor to a cultural icon inspiring millions.
