In his final Mann Ki Baat address of 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to four legendary figures of Indian cinema—Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), and Tapan Sinha—on their birth centenaries. Highlighting ANR’s immense contribution to Telugu cinema, Modi praised his films for beautifully portraying Indian traditions and values.
Responding to this recognition, ANR’s son, actor Nagarjuna Akkineni, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister. “Thank you, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, for honoring my father, ANR Garu, on his centenary year alongside such iconic legends. His vision and contributions to Indian cinema continue to inspire generations,” he said.
Echoing his father’s sentiments, Nagarjuna’s son, actor Naga Chaitanya, also conveyed his appreciation. “Thank you, Shri Modi ji, for your wonderful words about ANR Garu’s artistic merit and his efforts in shaping the Telugu film industry as we know it today,” he stated.
ANR’s legacy remains a cornerstone of Indian cinema, and this tribute from the Prime Minister reinforces his lasting influence on the industry.
