Padma Shri Glory for Two Tollywood Veterans

The Indian government announced the Padma Awards on the occasion of Republic Day, honouring two legendary actors from Tollywood with the Padma Shri.

Senior actor, former MP Murali Mohan received the Padma Shri, while veteran actor and celebrated comedian Rajendra Prasad was also conferred with the same honour. Both were selected in the arts category in recognition of their immense contribution to Indian cinema.

Murali Mohan made his acting debut in 1973 with the film Jagame Maya and went on to act in more than 350 films, earning immense popularity among Telugu audiences. He won the Nandi Award for Best Actor for Oo Thandri Theerpu in 1985.

He later received Nandi Awards for Best Supporting Actor for Preminchu in 2001 and Vegu Chukkalu in 2003. In 2017, he was honoured with the SIIMA Lifetime Achievement Award. As the chairman of the Jayabheri Group, he also produced several successful films. In recognition of his long and impactful service to cinema, he was selected for the Padma Shri in the arts category.

Rajendra Prasad, widely regarded as one of Tollywood’s finest actors and comedians, has made remarkable contributions to Telugu cinema. He entered the film industry in 1981 at the invitation of NTR and has acted in over 200 films, carving a unique identity with his versatile performances.

He won the Nandi Award for Best Actor for Erramandaram in 1991 and Aa Naluguru in 2004. He also received a Special Jury Nandi Award for Madam in 1994 and the Best Character Actor Nandi Award for Tommy in 2014.

In addition, he has won three SIIMA Awards and three Santosham Film Awards. Even today, Rajendra Prasad continues to entertain audiences with his signature comedy while competing alongside the younger generation of actors.

With decades of dedication as well as excellence, Murali Mohan and Rajendra Prasad have left an unforgettable mark on Telugu cinema. The Padma Shri honour stands as a well deserved recognition of their lasting contribution to the arts and their influence across generations.

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