Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, Sobhita Dhulipala thank PM Modi for honouring Akkineni Nageswara Rao-OxBig News Network

Akkineni Nageswara Rao and a still from his 1953 classic ‘Devadasu’
| Photo Credit: The Hindu Archives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), a prominent figure in Telugu cinema, during the 117th episode of his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat. Recognizing Rao’s contributions on his centenary year, PM Modi highlighted his role in elevating Telugu cinema and showcasing Indian traditions and values.

Actor Nagarjuna, ANR’s son, responded to the acknowledgment with a note of gratitude on X (formerly Twitter). Sharing a clip of the Prime Minister’s remarks, 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 expressed their thanks on Instagram. “Thank you, Shri Modi ji, for your wonderful words about Akkineni Nageswara Rao Garu’s artistic merit and his efforts that have played a key role in shaping the Telugu film industry. Immensely grateful,” their statement read.

ANR, whose career spanned over seven decades, is known for films such as Vipra Narayana and Tenali Ramakrishna. He was honoured with multiple awards, including the Padma Vibhushan, for his contributions to Indian cinema.

PM Modi’s tribute also included other legendary film personalities including, Raj Kapoor, Mohd Rafi and Tapan Sinha, emphasising their influence on Indian cinema and its global recognition.