Historic T. Nagar Residence of NT Rama Rao Changes Hands
Chennai: The historic residence of the legendary Telugu actor and former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao (NTR) on Bazullah Road, T. Nagar, has changed hands in a move deeply rooted in sentiment rather than commerce. Veteran film producer and businessman Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao has acquired the property from the Nandamuri family, pledging to preserve it as a memorial accessible to the public.
A Historic Landmark
Purchased by NTR in 1953 from a Bengali family, the 1,000-square-yard property holds a distinct place in the history of Telugu cinema. For three decades, it served as the home where the thespian lived while portraying his most iconic mythological roles, including Lord Rama, Krishna, and Bhishma.
During the golden era of Telugu cinema, the house became a pilgrimage site. Devotees visiting Tirupati would often travel to Madras (now Chennai) solely to catch a glimpse of the actor. Interestingly, Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao and his brother Tirupati Rao, who hail from Tenali, operated the very buses that transported these fans to NTR’s doorstep decades ago.
The Transaction
The decision to transfer ownership was facilitated by producer and family confidant Prasanna Kumar. While visiting Chennai for film work, Srinivasa Rao visited the house and was overcome with emotion, recalling the days he brought fans to the gate. Expressing a desire to care for the property, he approached the Nandamuri family.
NTR’s heirs, including sons Mohanakrishna and Ramakrishna who held the General Power of Attorney (GPA), reportedly prioritized handing the property to someone who would cherish its legacy over the highest bidder. The sale was finalized based on the prevailing land value without commercial negotiation.
In a poetic coincidence, the registration officials in Chennai expressed honor in processing the documents, noting that NTR himself had once trained as a sub-registrar in Madras before entering films.
Restoration and Future Plans
Srinivasa Rao has announced comprehensive renovation plans to restore the house to its former glory. Knowing NTR’s fondness for Burma Teak, the new owner is sourcing timber from Hyderabad to recreate the original furniture and layout. The renovation aims to keep the structure unchanged while renewing the interiors.
Plans are also afoot to install a gold statue of NTR in the hall and carve images of Lord Krishna and Rama on the main gates.
"I Am Just a Priest"
Addressing concerns about public access, Srinivasa Rao confirmed that the house would remain open to fans and admirers without restrictions.
"This house is a temple, and NTR is the deity. I am merely a priest here," Srinivasa Rao stated. "My intention in acquiring this property is to keep it accessible to the people. Anyone can come and view the home where the legend lived."
The acquisition ensures that one of South Indian cinema’s most significant landmarks remains a tribute to the man who redefined Telugu culture.
A Historic Landmark
Purchased by NTR in 1953 from a Bengali family, the 1,000-square-yard property holds a distinct place in the history of Telugu cinema. For three decades, it served as the home where the thespian lived while portraying his most iconic mythological roles, including Lord Rama, Krishna, and Bhishma.
During the golden era of Telugu cinema, the house became a pilgrimage site. Devotees visiting Tirupati would often travel to Madras (now Chennai) solely to catch a glimpse of the actor. Interestingly, Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao and his brother Tirupati Rao, who hail from Tenali, operated the very buses that transported these fans to NTR’s doorstep decades ago.
The Transaction
The decision to transfer ownership was facilitated by producer and family confidant Prasanna Kumar. While visiting Chennai for film work, Srinivasa Rao visited the house and was overcome with emotion, recalling the days he brought fans to the gate. Expressing a desire to care for the property, he approached the Nandamuri family.
NTR’s heirs, including sons Mohanakrishna and Ramakrishna who held the General Power of Attorney (GPA), reportedly prioritized handing the property to someone who would cherish its legacy over the highest bidder. The sale was finalized based on the prevailing land value without commercial negotiation.
In a poetic coincidence, the registration officials in Chennai expressed honor in processing the documents, noting that NTR himself had once trained as a sub-registrar in Madras before entering films.
Restoration and Future Plans
Srinivasa Rao has announced comprehensive renovation plans to restore the house to its former glory. Knowing NTR’s fondness for Burma Teak, the new owner is sourcing timber from Hyderabad to recreate the original furniture and layout. The renovation aims to keep the structure unchanged while renewing the interiors.
Plans are also afoot to install a gold statue of NTR in the hall and carve images of Lord Krishna and Rama on the main gates.
"I Am Just a Priest"
Addressing concerns about public access, Srinivasa Rao confirmed that the house would remain open to fans and admirers without restrictions.
"This house is a temple, and NTR is the deity. I am merely a priest here," Srinivasa Rao stated. "My intention in acquiring this property is to keep it accessible to the people. Anyone can come and view the home where the legend lived."
The acquisition ensures that one of South Indian cinema’s most significant landmarks remains a tribute to the man who redefined Telugu culture.