Journalist Prabhu Celebrates 40 Years in Film Journalism
Aditya Ram Purchases the First Copy of ‘Shoonyam Nunchi Shikharagralaku – Part 2’ for ₹5 Lakh; Producer Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao Announces a Donation of ₹11,11,111
Hyderabad: Journalist Prabhu’s birthday celebrations were held grandly in the presence of several prominent personalities from the Telugu film industry and the media fraternity at the Film Nagar Cultural Centre (FNCC), Hyderabad. The event marked a significant milestone in his career, celebrating his 40-year journey in Telugu cinema journalism, from 1986 to 2026.
The occasion also witnessed the unveiling of Shoonyam Nunchi Shikharagralaku – Part 2, authored by Prabhu and honoured with the Gaddar Award. Another major highlight was the launch of the Adepu Durga Madhavi Prabhu Charitable Trust, established in memory of his late wife, Adepu Durga Madhavi, with the aim of continuing her spirit of service.
The event was attended by several distinguished personalities, including directors S.V. Krishna Reddy and Relangi Narasimha Rao; producers Atchi Reddy, Kommuri Pratap Reddy, Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao, Aditya Ram, Katragadda Prasad and Thummalapalli Rama Satyanarayana; actors Suman, J.D. Chakravarthy and Uttej; choreographer Suchitra Chandrabose; music director R.P. Patnaik; and many others. Film industry veterans, media colleagues and family members extended birthday wishes to Prabhu and shared their fond memories and long-standing association with him.
A particularly memorable moment came when Aditya Ram, chairman of the Aditya Ram Group of Companies from Chennai, announced that he would purchase the first copy of Shoonyam Nunchi Shikharagralaku – Part 2 for ₹5 lakh. During the programme, host Nagendra Kumar initially invited bids for the first copy at ₹1 lakh. Aditya Ram responded that he would purchase it for ₹5 lakh, drawing enthusiastic applause from the gathering.
Producer Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao announced a donation of ₹11,11,111 to the Adepu Durga Madhavi Prabhu Charitable Trust. He stated that the assistance would be extended to people in need through producer Prasanna Kumar.
Aditya Ram Praises Prabhu’s Passion for Journalism
Producer Aditya Ram wished Prabhu a happy birthday and expressed happiness over the launch of the second part of his book. He said the size and depth of the book reflected Prabhu’s passion for film journalism, adding that the wealth of information contained in it could easily have been published across three separate volumes. He reiterated his decision to purchase the first copy for ₹5 lakh and wished Prabhu continued energy and success in his journalistic journey.
Atchi Reddy Appreciates Prabhu’s Contribution
Producer Atchi Reddy said Prabhu had carved out a distinctive place for himself among film journalists. He appreciated Prabhu for delivering meaningful information to the public and earning widespread appreciation. He wished Prabhu many more successful years of association with the film industry.
Suman Recalls Four Decades of Association
Actor Suman expressed his special respect and affection for Prabhu, recalling the many memories they had shared over the past four decades. He wished Prabhu continued success and a fulfilling journey ahead.
Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao Announces Support for the Trust
Producer Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao praised Prabhu’s talent as a journalist as well as his admirable personality. He noted that Prabhu had helped many people in need and expressed his hope that the industry would celebrate Prabhu’s 100th birthday as well. As a gesture of support for the newly launched charitable trust, he announced a contribution of ₹11,11,111 and said the amount would be distributed to deserving beneficiaries as directed by Prabhu.
Prabhu Reflects on His 40-Year Journey
Speaking on the occasion, journalist Prabhu said that his journey as a film journalist, which began in 1986, had reached the milestone of 40 years in 2026. He described it as one of the most significant moments of his career.
Prabhu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to build close associations with several eminent personalities in the film industry over the past four decades and for receiving their love, appreciation and encouragement.
He said he had always believed that journalism should contribute to the growth of the film industry. He emphasised that he had never attempted to intrude into anyone’s private life and had consistently upheld professional ethics and values. He added that many newcomers had been inspired by his journey and had entered the field of journalism.
Prabhu also fondly remembered legendary filmmaker Dasari Narayana Rao and producer Vadde Ramesh, saying that their contributions to his life would always remain unforgettable.
Concluding his address, Prabhu said he was launching the Adepu Durga Madhavi Prabhu Charitable Trust to carry forward the spirit of service and generosity embodied by his late wife.
The celebration turned into a memorable occasion, combining birthday wishes, a tribute to four decades of film journalism, the unveiling of a significant literary work and the beginning of a charitable initiative dedicated to helping those in need.
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