Exclusive Video: NTR's Chaitanya Ratham@ 41st TDP Formation Day
On its 41st anniversary, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) celebrated the occasion in Hyderabad by showcasing the famous 'Chaitanya Rathama' of its founder, N.T. Rama Rao. The TDP organized a meeting at the Exhibition Grounds in Hyderabad and displayed the 1940 model Chevrolet van that NTR had used for a state-wide campaign in the early 1980s, which had helped him to come into power in undivided Andhra Pradesh.
The 'Chaitanya Ratham,' which was also called the 'chariot of awakening,' revolutionized the political landscape by introducing the trend of Rath Yatra in politics. NTR traveled across the state in this vehicle to hold roadside meetings in all districts to instill a sense of self-respect among Telugus.
The custom-made Chevrolet van, which reportedly covered 75,000 kilometers, proved to be a game-changer in Andhra Pradesh politics. It helped NTR to connect with the masses and gave the TDP a significant boost in popularity.
It is noteworthy that NTR's son, Harikrishna, also gained fame as the 'Ratha Sarathi' (charioteer) of the 'Chaitanya Ratham.'
During the celebration of TDP's 41st formation day, party leaders from both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, including the TDP National President and former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, took a trip down memory lane and closely examined the historic campaign vehicle.
