Akkineni Nagarjuna Family Details

Nageshwar Rao Akkineni

Akkineni Nageswara Rao, fondly known as ANR, was one of the most celebrated actors in Indian cinema. Starting his career as a theatre artist, he rose to prominence in Telugu cinema during the 1940s and went on to act in over 250 films. He was versatile in portraying mythological, romantic, and social characters, making him a household name. ANR was a pioneer in bringing naturalistic acting to Telugu films, breaking away from theatrical expressions. He co-founded Annapurna Studios, named after his wife, which became a cornerstone of Telugu cinema production and training. Apart from acting, he was deeply committed to the upliftment of the film industry. ANR was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan for his immense contribution to Indian cinema. His legacy continues to inspire generations of actors.

Nagarjuna Akkineni

Nagarjuna is one of the most versatile and stylish actors in Telugu cinema, following in the footsteps of his father, ANR. Making his debut with Vikram (1986), he shot to fame with Shiva (1989), directed by Ram Gopal Varma, which redefined Telugu cinema with its raw style. Over the decades, Nagarjuna has portrayed a wide range of characters, from romantic heroes to mythological saints. His portrayal of Annamayya, Sri Ramadasu, and Shirdi Sai Baba won him critical acclaim and national awards. Beyond acting, Nagarjuna is a successful producer and entrepreneur, heading Annapurna Studios and the Annapurna International School of Film and Media. He also co-owns Maa TV and has business interests in real estate and hospitality. Known for his youthful looks even in his 60s, Nagarjuna is called the “Manmadhudu of Tollywood.” He has won two National Awards and numerous state honors, cementing his place as one of Indian cinema’s enduring stars.

Lakshmi Dhagubati

Lakshmi is the first wife of Nagarjuna and the daughter of legendary producer D. Ramanaidu, making her a part of the prestigious Daggubati family. She is the mother of actor Naga Chaitanya. Although not directly involved in the film industry, Lakshmi played a significant role in connecting two of Telugu cinema’s most powerful families — the Akkinenis and the Daggubatis. Her marriage to Nagarjuna eventually ended in divorce, but she maintained a dignified life outside the media limelight. Lakshmi has been known for her quiet personality, elegance, and strong ties to her family. She continues to be respected as the mother of one of Tollywood’s leading stars, and her presence at family events symbolizes unity between the Akkineni and Daggubati legacies.

Akhil Akkineni

Akhil, the younger son of Nagarjuna and Amala, entered cinema at a very young age, appearing as a child artist in Sisindri (1995), which was a commercial success. He made his full-fledged debut as a lead actor with Akhil (2015), which, despite high expectations, underperformed at the box office. Determined to make his mark, Akhil starred in films like Hello (2017), Mr. Majnu (2019), and Most Eligible Bachelor (2021), which gave him a breakthrough. Known for his energetic performances, dancing skills, and charming looks, Akhil is considered a rising star in Telugu cinema. Despite a few setbacks, he continues to refine his craft and gain audience acceptance. As the youngest Akkineni in films, fans have high hopes for his future in Tollywood.

Saroja Akkineni

Though not actors themselves, Saroja and Venkata Ratnam laid the foundation of the Akkineni family. Their guidance, values, and upbringing shaped the character of ANR and the generations that followed. They were deeply rooted in tradition and family values, ensuring that education, discipline, and ethics were a part of the household. While not much detailed public information is available about them, their significance lies in being the source of a family that went on to dominate Telugu cinema for over 75 years. Their legacy lives through their children and grandchildren, who continue to keep the Akkineni name alive.

Satyavathi Akkineni

Sathyavathi Akkineni is the eldest daughter of the eminent Telugu film actor and producer Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) and his wife Annapurna Akkineni. She is a member of the prestigious Akkineni–Daggubati family, which has had a substantial influence on Telugu cinema for several decades. Sathyavathi married Surendra Yarlagadda, an accomplished film producer, making her a vital connection between two prominent families in the southern Indian film industry. Sathyavathi played a pivotal, though low-profile, role in sustaining the Akkineni family’s legacy. She is the mother of Sumanth, a well-known Telugu actor, and Supriya Yarlagadda, who has also made contributions to the industry. Sathyavathi’s life is marked more by her familial and cultural influence within one of Telugu cinema’s first families than by work in front of the screen, and she is remembered for her strong familial ties and the impact of her lineage on Indian cinema.

Satya Bhushan Rao

Anumolu Satya Bhushana Rao was an important figure associated with Telugu cinema, best known as the husband of film producer Naga Susheela Akkineni and the son-in-law of legendary actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao. He belonged to the respected Anumolu family, with strong roots in the Telugu film industry thanks to his familial connections. Satya Bhushana Rao was the father of actor Sushanth, who has made a name for himself in Telugu films. Satya Bhushana Rao unfortunately passed away in May 2017 after suffering from prolonged illness. While he maintained a relatively private profile compared to his wife and son, his contribution lies in supporting and upholding the legacy of these film luminaries, making him an integral part of the Akkineni–Daggubati family’s multi-generational impact on South Indian cinema.