Hyderabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu led a chorus of tributes to the late Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) on his 102nd birth anniversary, remembering the legendary figure who transformed Telugu cinema and politics.
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister recalled NTR’s enduring legacy, calling him a giant in public life whose efforts to uplift the marginalised left a lasting impact. “On his Jayanti, I bow to NTR Garu. He lived for the people, especially the poor and backward. His films continue to entertain, and his vision inspires,” Modi wrote. He added that under Naidu’s leadership, the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh was working to carry forward NTR’s ideals.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who also heads the Telugu Desam Party founded by NTR, paid his respects with a deeply personal note. He described NTR as a cultural icon, a reformist, and a man who brought dignity and voice to the Telugu people on the world stage.
“He was a bold leader who made basic needs food, shelter, and clothing central to governance. Whether granting property rights to women or decentralising administration through the Mandal system, NTR reimagined what public service could be,” Naidu said.
In Hyderabad, NTR’s grandsons, film stars Jr NTR and Kalyan Ram, visited NTR Ghat and laid flowers at the former Chief Minister’s memorial. The family marked the occasion in an emotional and solemn gathering, as fans and followers also paid their respects.
Security was stepped up at the site to manage the crowds and ensure smooth proceedings.
I pay homage to NTR Garu on his birth anniversary. He is widely admired for his efforts to serve society and empower the poor and downtrodden. His cinematic works also continue to enthral audiences. We are all deeply inspired by him.
The NDA Government in Andhra Pradesh, led by…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2025
#NTRLivesOn
యుగపురుషుడు, విశ్వవిఖ్యాత నటసార్వభౌముడు, తెలుగు వారి ఆరాధ్య దైవం, తెలుగు ప్రజల ఆత్మగౌరవాన్ని ప్రపంచానికి చాటి చెప్పిన మహనీయుడు, సంక్షేమానికి కొత్త బాట చూపిన సంఘ సంస్కర్త, ‘అన్న’ నందమూరి తారక రామారావు 102వ జయంతి సందర్భంగా ఘన నివాళి అర్పిస్తున్నాను. పేద ప్రజలకు కూడు,… pic.twitter.com/wcneOZD7CX— N Chandrababu Naidu (@ncbn) May 28, 2025