Jr NTR and Kalyan Ram Honor NTR on His 29th Death Anniversary
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On January 18, 2025, Jr NTR and Kalyan Ram paid a heartfelt tribute to their late grandfather, the legendary Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR), at NTR Ghat in Hyderabad. The occasion marked the 29th anniversary of the iconic actor-politician’s passing, drawing family members and admirers to honor his enduring legacy.
Jr NTR and Kalyan Ram arrived early in the morning, offering their respects amidst a serene atmosphere. Balakrishna, another prominent member of the Nandamuri family, joined them later, reflecting the deep reverence the family holds for NTR. Balakrishna also visited Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital to pay his tributes, while a mega blood donation camp was organized at NTR Trust Bhavan, embodying the spirit of service that NTR championed.
“He is a definition of acting and an inspiration to everyone. Such people will not have death,”
Balakrishna
Balakrishna,in his heartfelt address,recalled NTR’s multifaceted legacy. He described him as a versatile actor who fearlessly experimented with diverse roles and a revolutionary politician who founded the Telugu Desam Party to serve the people with integrity. NTR’s visionary welfare schemes, which transformed the lives of the underprivileged, were also highlighted as a testament to his enduring impact.
Legacy Beyond Cinema and Politics
NTR’s influence extends far beyond his cinematic and political achievements. His commitment to social justice and his ability to connect with the masses continue to inspire generations. The annual tribute at NTR Ghat serves as a reminder of his contributions to Telugu culture and society.
Current Endeavors of the Nandamuri Family
While honoring their patriarch, the Nandamuri family members are also making waves in the entertainment industry. Balakrishna is basking in the success of his recent blockbuster, Daaku Maharaaj, and is gearing up for his next project, Akhanda 2. Jr NTR is currently engrossed in the production of War 2, set to release later this year. Meanwhile, Kalyan Ram is preparing for his upcoming film, tentatively titled NKR21, showcasing the family’s continued dominance in Telugu cinema.
As the Nandamuri family gathers to commemorate NTR’s legacy, their tributes serve as a poignant reminder of his indelible mark on both the silver screen and the political landscape. his life and work remain a beacon of inspiration,proving that true legends never fade away.
How did NTR’s social and cultural themes in his films shape his connection with the audience?
Interview with Dr. Suresh Reddy, Cultural Historian and NTR Biographer
By Archyde News
As the 29th death anniversary of the legendary actor and politician Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) approaches, archyde had the privilege of speaking with Dr.suresh Reddy, a renowned cultural historian and author of the acclaimed biography NTR: The Colossus of Indian Cinema and Politics. Dr. Reddy shared his insights into NTR’s enduring legacy and his impact on both the telugu film industry and Indian politics.
Archyde: Dr. Reddy, thank you for joining us. NTR remains an iconic figure even decades after his passing. how would you describe his influence on Indian cinema and politics?
Dr. Suresh Reddy: Thank you for having me. NTR was a transformative figure in every sense.In cinema, he redefined the Telugu film industry with his charismatic screen presence, versatility, and dedication to storytelling. He played a range of characters—from mythological figures to contemporary heroes—and became a symbol of telugu pride. Politically, he was a game-changer. His founding of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) marked a shift in indian politics, emphasizing regional identity and governance. He wasn’t just an actor turned politician; he was a visionary who understood the aspirations of the common people.
Archyde: JR NTR and Kalyan Ram, his grandsons, recently paid tribute to him on his death anniversary. What does the continuation of the NTR legacy through his family mean?
Dr. Suresh Reddy: The NTR family’s commitment to preserving his legacy is deeply notable. JR NTR and Kalyan Ram, like their grandfather, have excelled in cinema while also embodying the values he stood for. Their tributes are not just personal; they are a reminder of NTR’s enduring influence on Telugu culture and society. it’s heartening to see the younger generation carry forward his vision,whether through their work in films or their engagement with the public.
archyde: NTR’s films often had strong social and cultural themes. how did this shape his connection with the audience?
dr. Suresh Reddy: NTR’s films were more than entertainment—they were a reflection of the society he lived in. Whether he was portraying a mythological hero like Lord Krishna or a common man fighting against injustice, his characters resonated deeply with the audience. He had an innate ability to blend entertainment with social messages, making his films both impactful and memorable. This connection is why he became a cultural icon, transcending the boundaries of cinema.
Archyde: as someone who has extensively studied NTR’s life, what aspect of his legacy do you find most inspiring?
Dr. Suresh Reddy: What inspires me most is his unwavering commitment to his roots. Despite achieving immense success, he never lost touch with the people he represented.He entered politics not for power but to serve, and he remained grounded in his principles. his life is a testament to the idea that one individual can make a profound difference, whether through art or public service.
Archyde: what message would you like to share with the younger generation about NTR’s legacy?
Dr. Suresh Reddy: NTR’s legacy is a reminder of the power of passion, integrity, and dedication. To the younger generation, I would say: Study his life, not just as a historical figure but as a source of inspiration. His journey teaches us that with hard work and a commitment to one’s values, it’s possible to leave an indelible mark on the world.
Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Reddy,for sharing your invaluable insights with us. NTR’s legacy continues to inspire, and your work ensures that future generations will remember his contributions.
Dr. Suresh Reddy: Thank you. It’s an honor to keep NTR’s story alive.
End of Interview.
As the 29th death anniversary of NTR is commemorated, his legacy remains a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of art and service. Stay tuned to Archyde for more stories on cultural icons and their enduring impact.