TDP pushes Bharat Ratna demand for NTR at Mahanadu; minister Dola Bala Veeranjaneyulu says "entire world demands it"
Vijayawada, May 28
The Telugu Desam Party intensified its demand for the Bharat Ratna to legendary actor-politician Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao during the second day of Mahanadu celebrations in Vijayawada, with Andhra Pradesh minister Dola Bala Veeranjaneyulu stating that "the entire world" is seeking the country's highest civilian honour for the former Chief Minister.
Speaking to ANI, Dola Bala Veeranjaneyulu said, "NTR is the pride of the people of Andhra Pradesh. The entire world is demanding the Bharat Ratna for NTR, and we will place this demand before Prime Minister Narendra Modi."
He further said, "The people of Andhra Pradesh feel that NTR is the pride of their Telugu language. For this reason, all over the state and entire world is also demanding Bharat Ratna to NTR."
The statement came after the TDP passed a unanimous resolution demanding the Bharat Ratna for NTR during the second day of the party's Mahanadu event.
Addressing party leaders and cadre, TDP president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described NTR as a global icon for the Telugu community and said his contributions to public life and national politics deserved the honour.
Responding to Chandrababu Naidu's appeal, party leaders and cadre raised their hands in unanimous support of the resolution.
Chandrababu said NTR Jayanti is celebrated by Telugu people across the world and noted that although TDP is a regional party, it has played a historic role in shaping national politics. He added that NTR's contributions to the nation remain unforgettable and asserted that he deserves the Bharat Ratna.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to NTR on his birth anniversary in a message shared on X.
"Tributes to the great NTR Garu on his birth anniversary. He is fondly remembered for his commitment towards public welfare and governance, which ensured dignity for the poor and marginalised. His contributions to cinema continue to captivate generations. His life and ideals remain a source of immense inspiration. The NDA Government in Andhra Pradesh, under the leadership of my friend Chandrababu Naidu Garu, is committed to advancing the aspirations he cherished for the people," the Prime Minister wrote.
Born on May 28, 1923, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao remains one of the most influential figures in Telugu cinema and regional politics. Popularly known as NTR, he built a celebrated career as an actor, producer, director and editor before founding the Telugu Desam Party and serving multiple terms as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
During his film career, NTR received three National Film Awards for co-producing "Thodu Dongalu" (1954) and "Seetharama Kalyanam" (1960), and for directing "Varakatnam" (1970). He also received the erstwhile Rashtrapati Awards for performances in films including "Raju Peda" (1954) and "Lava Kusa" (1963).
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a Telugu person, I feel proud that our people are asking for this recognition. But honestly, the Bharat Ratna should be given to NTR for his cinematic achievements alone - he was a legend on screen. The political side is a bonus. Let's not mix too much politics into this. 🙏
I respect NTR's legacy but this demand feels like a political tactic by TDP to rally their base before elections. Modi ji's tribute was respectful and appropriate - he acknowledged NTR's work without making any promises. Let the government decide based on merit, not pressure from one party.
NTR is our pride! The way he transformed Andhra politics and gave voice to the common man is inspiring. But "entire world is demanding" seems like a stretch - maybe the entire Telugu diaspora, yes. Still, Bharat Ratna would be a fitting tribute to his legacy. ❤️
Why is TDP making this a political issue now? NTR passed away in 1996 - this demand has been around for decades. If the government felt he deserved it, they would have given it already. Instead of this drama, they should focus on real issues like unemployment and farmer distress in Andhra.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.