During the 117th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), a legendary actor and film producer in Telugu cinema. Marking ANR’s centenary year, PM Modi highlighted his significant contributions to Indian cinema, emphasizing how he elevated Telugu films and portrayed Indian traditions and values on the global stage.
PM Modi also honored other iconic personalities such as Raj Kapoor, Mohammad Rafi, and Tapan Sinha, appreciating their roles in showcasing India’s cultural richness and societal values through cinema. He described them as inspirations for the entire film industry and lauded their efforts in promoting India’s soft power globally.
Nagarjuna and Family Express Gratitude
Actor Nagarjuna Akkineni, ANR’s son, expressed his heartfelt thanks on social media. Sharing a clip of PM Modi’s tribute on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “Thank you, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, for honoring my father, ANR Garu, on his centenary year. His vision and contributions to Indian cinema continue to inspire generations, and this recognition means the world to our family.”
Actors Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala also thanked PM Modi via Instagram. They wrote, “Thank you, Shri Modi ji, for your wonderful words about Akkineni Nageswara Rao Garu’s artistic merit and his efforts that shaped the Telugu film industry. Immensely grateful.”
ANR’s Remarkable Career
ANR’s career spanned over seven decades, during which he appeared in classics like Prem Nagar, Gundamma Katha, Mayabazar, Suvarna Sundari, Devadasu, Vipra Narayana, and Tenali Ramakrishna. Known for his versatile acting and dedication, he played a pivotal role in placing Telugu cinema on the global map.
In 2011, ANR was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards. His last film, Manam, featured three generations of the Akkineni family, including Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, and Akhil Akkineni, alongside Amala Akkineni.
PM Modi’s tribute celebrates ANR’s artistic excellence and his enduring influence on Indian cinema. The acknowledgment resonates deeply with fans and industry professionals, reaffirming ANR’s place as an icon of Telugu cinema.
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