The 2024 ANR Award Honors Megastar Chiranjeevi with Amitabh Bachchan Present
The ANR National Award ceremony is a tribute to the legendary actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), an icon in Indian cinema. Since its inception by ANR himself, this award honors figures who have significantly impacted Indian cinema, perpetuating ANR’s legacy. This year’s award, given during ANR’s centenary celebration, honored Padma Vibhushan recipient Megastar Chiranjeevi for his remarkable contributions.
A Tribute to ANR’s Influence
The ANR centenary celebration showcased the timeless influence of ANR’s work with screenings of his classic films, a special commemorative stamp from the Government of India, and a grand award ceremony. The ANR National Award for 2024 was presented to Chiranjeevi by Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, making it a truly memorable event. This award celebrates Chiranjeevi’s achievements as one of Telugu cinema’s most influential stars, making him the second Telugu actor after ANR to be awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan.
Chiranjeevi’s Emotional Acceptance
Receiving the award, Chiranjeevi expressed heartfelt gratitude to ANR, who he described as a fatherly figure. He shared how this recognition from Amitabh Bachchan marked a pinnacle in his cinematic journey. Reflecting on ANR’s legacy, Chiranjeevi highlighted the inspiration he received from ANR’s dance and grace, noting that ANR had once praised him as the one who brought “grace” to Telugu dance. This moment was especially poignant as Chiranjeevi credited ANR’s encouragement for his continued success and influence.
Nagarjuna’s Heartfelt Tribute to His Father
Nagarjuna, ANR’s son, also shared a moving tribute. He reminisced about ANR’s devotion to humanity, family, and cinema, remarking how these values shaped his legendary status. Nagarjuna described ANR as a devoted father, husband, and friend, and celebrated him as a figure who transcended the screen to become a concept and a legacy. He hailed the award ceremony as a fitting tribute to his father, stating, “ANR means the world to us.”
In his address, Nagarjuna welcomed Amitabh Bachchan and Chiranjeevi as the “ABC of Indian Cinema”—a moniker he used to honor their status as legends in the industry. Nagarjuna praised Amitabh’s contribution to Indian cinema and social causes, saying that Amitabh’s presence elevated the award’s prestige. He also celebrated Chiranjeevi as both a dear friend and a cinematic giant whose humility and dedication have earned him respect and admiration.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Tribute to ANR and the Telugu Film Industry
Amitabh Bachchan, reflecting on ANR’s legacy, shared his deep admiration for the Telugu film industry. He expressed his gratitude to the ANR Foundation and the Akkineni family, acknowledging the profound impact ANR had on cinema and culture. Amitabh recalled a poem by his father that speaks to legacy, saying that the true inheritance lies not in material wealth but in values. He then addressed Nagarjuna, affirming the Akkineni family as the rightful heirs to ANR’s cinematic legacy. Amitabh noted that this event strengthened his connection with the Telugu film industry, adding, “I proudly say that I’m a member of the Telugu Film Industry.”
Honoring Chiranjeevi’s Influence on Cinema and Society
During the event, Nagarjuna highlighted Chiranjeevi’s long-standing contributions to Indian cinema and charity, including the Chiranjeevi Charitable Trust, which has aided thousands in need. He reflected on Chiranjeevi’s early years in the industry and his humility despite his tremendous success. Chiranjeevi shared memories of working with Amitabh Bachchan and the invaluable support he received from him. Expressing his gratitude, he said, “Receiving this award from Amitabh Ji, and having Nagarjuna and the Akkineni family here, brings completeness to my journey.”
The event was also a reminder of the close bond Chiranjeevi shared with ANR and how that friendship lives on through Nagarjuna. Chiranjeevi recalled ANR’s encouragement during his early career and the life lessons he learned from him. Nagarjuna has since become a close friend and mentor to Chiranjeevi, further solidifying the bond between the two families.
A Legacy Lives On
The ANR National Award ceremony was not only a tribute to Chiranjeevi but also a celebration of ANR’s enduring legacy. The evening, filled with tributes and nostalgic reflections, underscored ANR’s impact on Indian cinema and his influence on generations of actors and filmmakers. In honoring Chiranjeevi, the ANR Foundation continues to celebrate the icons who carry ANR’s spirit forward, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.