Remembering NTR, The Stalwart Actor & Charismatic People’s Leader

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, fondly called as NTR by a legion of fans and supporters, left an indelible imprint with his legacy on Indian cinema and politics, which is why he is revered as a household name among Telugu speaking people across the globe even after 30 years of his death.

Today marks the 30th death anniversary of the stalwart actor and charismatic people’s leader who is not only remembered for his prodigal and commanding on-screen apperances as an actor but also for introducing inspiring political reforms in the capacity of Chief Minister for united Andhra Pradesh.

Born on 28th May 1923 in Nimmakuru ( erstwhile Madras Presidency, now Krishna district of AP), Rama Rao completed his graduation before taking up the job of a sub-registrar through service commission at the age of 24 years. But, he immediately left his job to follow his passion towards acting career and made his debut in 1949 with the film Mana Desam. This risky transition turned out to be a historic decision as he went on to become one of most loved actors in the country’s long history.

Since then, NTR never looked back in his career and created a never ending legacy for his name. He took very little time to rise through the ranks with his august screen presence as a lead actor in hundreds of films. His stellar performances in manifold roles are unmatchable by any standards even after many decades since he reprised them on the big screen during his heydays.

His stupendous acting masterclass and imposing dialogue delivery skills act as a reference book for the world of cinema and continue to inspire many generations of actors in different languages. Some of his memorable films include Misamma, Mayabazar, Gundamma Katha, Adavi Ramudu, Daana Veera Soora Karna, Lava Kusa, Sri Krishnarjuna Yudham, Bhookailas, Pathala Bhairava and Brahmarshi Vishwamitra to name a few.

NTR’s acting repertoire ranges from family entertainers to classical romantic dramas to fantasy adventures to mythological behemoths. For his selfless contribution to the art and cinema, NTR won innumerable honours throughout his career including Padma Shri, National awards, Nandi awards, Rashtrapati awards, an honorary doctorate from Andhra University.

In what was momentous decision which changed the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh, NTR announced the formation of Telugu Desam Party in 1982 and took plunge into active politics when he was in the peak of his acting career. NTR created history and attained an unprecedented record when he became the Chief Minister of AP after launching his party just nine months before the general elections with a resounding majority.

In his first year of office, NTR came up with populist and welfare centric schemes like subsidized rice at Rs 2 per kg which was a big hit among the masses. He was also the trailblazer for introducing reservation for backward classes in the local body elections. He was also the first Chief Minister to implement a blanket ban on liquor sale and also started the practice of registering house site pattas in the name of women and special courts for crimes against women.

He served four tumultuous terms as Chief Minister and also returned to movies which marked twilight of his career. He died of heart-attack at his residence on January 18th 1996. Even today, NTR’s principles continue to be the guiding light for Telugu Desam Party which carries his legacy forward under the able leadership of his son-in-law and current Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.