Today marks 100 years since the birth of (ANR) Akkineni Nageswara Rao, in Telugu cinema. Over his 75 year career, he acted in many different roles. He was born in 1924 and because of his family’s financial struggles, he only completed primary school.
He started his career in theater, often playing female roles because women are not allowed to act at that time. His big break came when Ghantasala Balaramayya discovered him at the Vijayawada railway station and offered him the lead role in “Sri Seeta Rama Jananam”, after which his career took off.
He acted in 255 films, Fans affectionately call him Natasamrat. He played a main role in moving the Telugu film industry from Madras to Hyderabad.
To further support the industry, he established Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad with government assistance. He received many awards.
Annapurna Studios has teamed up with the Heritage Foundation and PVR Inox to re release some of ANR’s classic films from September 20th to 22nd. This is a great chance for younger audiences to experience the timeless classics of this beloved icon.
#ANRLivesOn A man of discipline, A man who made TFI to shift from Madras to Hyderabad, A man who acted till his last breath. Legend ANR #ANR100 pic.twitter.com/Rm1MODId0b
— Nenevaro Neku Telusu (@ichowdary9) September 20, 2024
