The Only Legend We Know and Have Seen: NTR, Says CM Chandrababu Naidu
Advertisement
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu participated as the chief guest at the celebrations marking 75 years since the release of Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao's (NTR) debut film, Mana Desam. Speaking at the event, Naidu highlighted the significance of the occasion, describing NTR as a "legend" and "a unique personality rarely born in history."
“This celebration is a special moment as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of Mana Desam,” Chandrababu Naidu said, adding that it was remarkable to have the film’s producer, Krishnaveni, attend the event at the age of 102. He praised her discipline and determination, noting that she attended peacefully despite her age, demonstrating the values she practiced throughout her life.
Chandrababu Naidu lauded the presence of several prominent film personalities, including Daggubati Suresh, former MP Jayaprada, actor Prabha, Krishnam Raju’s wife Shyamala, Ghattamaneni Adiseshagiri Rao, and K.S. Rama Rao. He also appreciated T.D. Janardhan for successfully organizing the event, crediting the NTR Literature Committee for making it possible.
A Tribute to NTR
Reflecting on NTR’s legacy, Chandrababu Naidu said, “The life and work of NTR are a testament to the impact of a true visionary. Whether on the silver screen or in politics, he wrote golden chapters wherever he ventured.”
Chandrababu Naidu detailed NTR’s extraordinary journey, from his humble beginnings in a farmer's family in Nimmakuru to his meteoric rise in cinema and politics. “No one in history has achieved what he did—establishing a political party and becoming Chief Minister within nine months. It is unparalleled and likely will remain so,” Chandrababu Naidu stated.
Referring to NTR’s debut in cinema, Chandrababu Naidu said, “His first film, Mana Desam, was released 75 years ago. Today, even in his absence, we celebrate his contributions, showcasing his enduring greatness.” He emphasized the need to draw inspiration from the lives of legends like NTR, whose impact transcended time.
NTR’s Multifaceted Persona
Chandrababu Naidu recounted NTR’s rise in the film industry, beginning with his move to Madras in 1945. Initially earning a monthly salary, NTR worked tirelessly to achieve success. He acted in 300 films across diverse genres, including social, mythological, historical, and folk tales.
“Actors of NTR’s caliber are rare. He embodied every character he played, whether as Lord Rama, Krishna, or Venkateswara, and maintained a disciplined lifestyle to do justice to those roles,” Chandrababu Naidu remarked. He shared how NTR avoided meat and slept on the floor while preparing for divine characters, becoming a symbol of dedication and professionalism.
Chandrababu Naidu recalled asking NTR how he balanced roles as contrasting as Lord Rama and Ravana. NTR replied, “Each character is unique and demands its own identity. I bring out the distinctive qualities of every role I play.”
Highlighting NTR’s versatility, Chandrababu Naidu mentioned the actor-director’s work in Daana Veera Soora Karna, where he played three roles and directed the film. “He was the only actor with mastery over all 24 crafts of filmmaking,” Chandrababu Naidu asserted.
From Cinema to Politics
Chandrababu Naidu described NTR’s transition from cinema to politics as equally heroic. “After spending 60 years dedicated to his family and receiving immense love from the public, he decided to dedicate his remaining life to the people,” Chandrababu Naidu recalled.
Launching the Chaitanya Ratham, NTR toured Andhra Pradesh for nine months, prioritizing public welfare over personal events, including family weddings. “He became Chief Minister in just nine months, a record unmatched in Indian politics. His Telugu Desam Party will remain as long as the Telugu people exist,” Chandrababu Naidu stated, emphasizing that the party had already enrolled 7.3 million members online, reflecting its enduring strength.
NTR: A Symbol of Telugu Pride
Chandrababu Naidu praised NTR’s contribution to Telugu culture, stating, “NTR personified Telugu pride and self-respect. He was the only leader to grant property rights to women. Before NTR, politics was an elitist domain, but he redefined governance with his vision of Koodu-Goodu-Gudda (food, shelter, and clothing).”
Drawing inspiration from NTR’s legacy, Chandrababu Naidu reiterated the Telugu Desam Party’s commitment to eradicating poverty and addressing economic inequalities. “NTR’s values guide us as we strive to ensure equitable development and uplift the underprivileged,” he concluded.
“This celebration is a special moment as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of Mana Desam,” Chandrababu Naidu said, adding that it was remarkable to have the film’s producer, Krishnaveni, attend the event at the age of 102. He praised her discipline and determination, noting that she attended peacefully despite her age, demonstrating the values she practiced throughout her life.
Chandrababu Naidu lauded the presence of several prominent film personalities, including Daggubati Suresh, former MP Jayaprada, actor Prabha, Krishnam Raju’s wife Shyamala, Ghattamaneni Adiseshagiri Rao, and K.S. Rama Rao. He also appreciated T.D. Janardhan for successfully organizing the event, crediting the NTR Literature Committee for making it possible.
A Tribute to NTR
Reflecting on NTR’s legacy, Chandrababu Naidu said, “The life and work of NTR are a testament to the impact of a true visionary. Whether on the silver screen or in politics, he wrote golden chapters wherever he ventured.”
Chandrababu Naidu detailed NTR’s extraordinary journey, from his humble beginnings in a farmer's family in Nimmakuru to his meteoric rise in cinema and politics. “No one in history has achieved what he did—establishing a political party and becoming Chief Minister within nine months. It is unparalleled and likely will remain so,” Chandrababu Naidu stated.
Referring to NTR’s debut in cinema, Chandrababu Naidu said, “His first film, Mana Desam, was released 75 years ago. Today, even in his absence, we celebrate his contributions, showcasing his enduring greatness.” He emphasized the need to draw inspiration from the lives of legends like NTR, whose impact transcended time.
NTR’s Multifaceted Persona
Chandrababu Naidu recounted NTR’s rise in the film industry, beginning with his move to Madras in 1945. Initially earning a monthly salary, NTR worked tirelessly to achieve success. He acted in 300 films across diverse genres, including social, mythological, historical, and folk tales.
“Actors of NTR’s caliber are rare. He embodied every character he played, whether as Lord Rama, Krishna, or Venkateswara, and maintained a disciplined lifestyle to do justice to those roles,” Chandrababu Naidu remarked. He shared how NTR avoided meat and slept on the floor while preparing for divine characters, becoming a symbol of dedication and professionalism.
Chandrababu Naidu recalled asking NTR how he balanced roles as contrasting as Lord Rama and Ravana. NTR replied, “Each character is unique and demands its own identity. I bring out the distinctive qualities of every role I play.”
Highlighting NTR’s versatility, Chandrababu Naidu mentioned the actor-director’s work in Daana Veera Soora Karna, where he played three roles and directed the film. “He was the only actor with mastery over all 24 crafts of filmmaking,” Chandrababu Naidu asserted.
From Cinema to Politics
Chandrababu Naidu described NTR’s transition from cinema to politics as equally heroic. “After spending 60 years dedicated to his family and receiving immense love from the public, he decided to dedicate his remaining life to the people,” Chandrababu Naidu recalled.
Launching the Chaitanya Ratham, NTR toured Andhra Pradesh for nine months, prioritizing public welfare over personal events, including family weddings. “He became Chief Minister in just nine months, a record unmatched in Indian politics. His Telugu Desam Party will remain as long as the Telugu people exist,” Chandrababu Naidu stated, emphasizing that the party had already enrolled 7.3 million members online, reflecting its enduring strength.
NTR: A Symbol of Telugu Pride
Chandrababu Naidu praised NTR’s contribution to Telugu culture, stating, “NTR personified Telugu pride and self-respect. He was the only leader to grant property rights to women. Before NTR, politics was an elitist domain, but he redefined governance with his vision of Koodu-Goodu-Gudda (food, shelter, and clothing).”
Drawing inspiration from NTR’s legacy, Chandrababu Naidu reiterated the Telugu Desam Party’s commitment to eradicating poverty and addressing economic inequalities. “NTR’s values guide us as we strive to ensure equitable development and uplift the underprivileged,” he concluded.
Advertisement