NBK, Jr NTR pay tributes to NTR on death anniversary

On the 28th death anniversary of the legendary actor and leader Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR), Tollywood icons Nandamuri Balakrishna, Jr NTR, and Kalyan Ram came together to pay their heartfelt tributes. Early Saturday morning, the family gathered at NTR Ghat on the banks of Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad to honor his legacy and celebrate his unparalleled contributions to cinema and public service.

The occasion was marked by a deep sense of reverence and gratitude. Jr NTR and Kalyan Ram, grandsons of the late stalwart, were among the first to offer floral tributes at the samadhi. Fans of Jr NTR thronged the area to witness the homage, showcasing their enduring admiration for NTR and his family.

Nandamuri Balakrishna, an acclaimed actor and a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Andhra Pradesh, joined the tribute with his brother Nandamuri Ramakrishna and other family members. Reflecting on his father’s towering legacy, Balakrishna described NTR as a visionary leader who not only redefined Telugu cinema but also revolutionized governance with his people-centric policies.

Balakrishna hailed NTR as a trailblazer who championed the self-respect of Telugu people and brought them global recognition through the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which he founded in 1982. “NTR’s ideals and efforts for the poor and marginalized sections of society will forever remain a guiding light. His contributions to cinema, politics, and public welfare are unmatched,” he said.

He recalled key initiatives of NTR’s tenure as Chief Minister, including the introduction of welfare schemes like Rs. 2-a-kg rice and the simplification of administrative systems through the creation of new mandals and talukas. Balakrishna emphasized that NTR’s visionary approach made governance more accessible and impactful.

Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh, accompanied by his mother Bhuvaneswari (NTR’s daughter), also paid homage at the samadhi. Lokesh highlighted NTR’s revolutionary reforms in administration and governance, crediting him with bringing global recognition to Telugu identity. “NTR’s unparalleled contributions make him deserving of Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor,” he added.

NTR’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. From ruling the silver screen as one of the greatest actors in Telugu cinema to reshaping the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh, his impact remains timeless. In 1982, NTR launched the Telugu Desam Party with the vision of restoring Telugu pride. Within just nine months, he led TDP to a historic victory, ending the single-party dominance of Congress in undivided Andhra Pradesh.

NTR’s legacy continues to inspire millions. The heartfelt tributes paid by his family, fans, and political successors reflect the indelible mark he left on both Telugu cinema and Indian politics. As the nation remembers him, his ideals and vision remain alive in the hearts of people who revere him as a true legend.