NTR lives on in every Telugu heart.

January 19, 2026
Sreekanth bathalapalli
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NTR lives on in every Telugu heart.

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR), fondly remembered as Anna or the legend of Telugu cinema and politics, passed away on January 18, 1996. Today marks his 30th death anniversary — a poignant milestone where tributes continue to pour in from leaders, family, fans, and the Telugu community worldwide.

On this solemn occasion, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described NTR as the “pole star in cinema” and an “invincible warrior in politics,” hailing him as an epochal figure who championed Telugu self-respect and rewrote history for generations. Minister Nara Lokesh visited NTR Ghat in Hyderabad to offer floral tributes, calling him the flag-bearer of Telugu pride — a leader whose mythological roles are still worshipped in homes across the region.

Family members, including Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, and TDP affiliates paid respects at the beautifully adorned NTR Ghat, accompanied by photo exhibitions showcasing his cinematic and political journey.

Who Was NTR? A Legendary Life in Brief

Born on May 28, 1923, in Nimmakuru village, Krishna district, NTR rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most iconic figures.

Cinema Icon: He acted in over 300 films, often portraying gods like Krishna and Rama, earning three National Film Awards. Classics like Mayabazar, Pathala Bhairavi, and Lava Kusa cemented his status as Nata Sarvabhouma (Emperor of Acting). His larger-than-life portrayals elevated Telugu cinema globally.
Political Revolutionary: In 1982, he founded the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and swept to power within months, becoming Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. He introduced groundbreaking welfare schemes — subsidized rice (₹2/kg), social pensions, housing for the poor, and empowerment for women and backward classes — that transformed lives and inspired national policies.
Champion of Telugu Pride: NTR’s famous Chaitanya Ratham yatra mobilized masses, instilling self-respect and identity among Telugus. His slogan of Telugu atma gauravam (self-respect) remains timeless.

Even 30 years after his passing, NTR’s legacy endures through welfare foundations, named districts, and the continued reverence in Telugu households. His grandson Jr NTR carries forward the family’s cinematic torch, while political heirs uphold his vision.

On this 30th NTR Vardhanthi, we remember a man who was not just an actor or politician, but a true yugapurusha — a man of the era who dedicated his life to the upliftment of the poor and the pride of Telugu people.

NTR lives on in every Telugu heart.

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Published on www.nriglobe.com – Connecting Non-Resident Indians with their roots and inspiring stories from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.