Hyderabad, October 29, 2024 — In a star-studded event held in Hyderabad on Monday, South Indian cinema superstar Chiranjeevi was awarded the prestigious Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) National Award. The award was presented by Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, making it a memorable occasion for fans of both actors and the film industry alike.
This year’s event was particularly special as it celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of the iconic Telugu actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao, father of actor Nagarjuna, who hosted the ceremony. The ANR National Award was established in 2005 by the Akkineni International Foundation to recognize exceptional contributions to Indian cinema, and it continues to uphold the legacy of its namesake.
A Moment of Reverence
In a touching moment captured on video, Chiranjeevi demonstrated his deep respect for Amitabh Bachchan by bending down to touch his feet after receiving the award. This display of humility resonated with the audience and further highlighted the camaraderie among the legends of the film industry.
The event featured a host of notable figures from the Telugu film fraternity, including actors Ram Charan, Nani, Brahmanandam, Ramya Krishnan, and Prakash Raj. Among the attendees was Naga Chaitanya, who arrived with his fiancée, Sobhita Dhulipala, adding to the glamour of the evening.
A Legacy Remembered
Earlier this month, Nagarjuna took to social media to announce the significance of this year’s ANR National Awards. He wrote, “This year is extra special as we celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of my father, ANR garu! Honoured to invite @SrBachchan ji and Megastar @KChiruTweets garu to the ANR Awards 2024 to mark this milestone! Let’s make this award function unforgettable!”
The ANR National Awards have a rich history of honoring cinematic legends. Previous recipients include Sridevi, Rekha, and Lata Mangeshkar. Notably, the first award was presented to the late actor-filmmaker Dev Anand, marking the ceremony’s long-standing tradition of recognizing excellence in Indian cinema.
Conclusion
Chiranjeevi’s receipt of the ANR National Award not only celebrates his contributions to the film industry but also pays homage to the legacy of Akkineni Nageswara Rao. As the event unfolded with glitz and glamour, it served as a reminder of the enduring impact of cinema on culture and the importance of honoring those who have shaped its history.
As fans continue to celebrate this momentous occasion, the impact of such awards on the recognition of talent in the industry remains profound, ensuring that the legacy of great artists like Akkineni Nageswara Rao will never fade.