Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) (28 May 1923 – 18 January 1996) was one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema and Andhra Pradesh politics. Born in Nimmakuru, Andhra Pradesh, he earned a degree and briefly held a government job before leaving it to pursue acting—a rare step at the time. NTR made his film debut in 1949 with a supporting role in "Manadesam" and quickly rose to stardom, becoming renowned for his portrayals of mythological and social characters, especially deities like Krishna and Rama. Over his career, he acted in more than 300 films, including classics such as "Pathala Bhairavi," "Maya Bazaar," "Missamma," "Gundamma Katha," "Dana Veera Sura Karna," "Adavi Ramudu," and "Bobbili Puli," earning the title "Viswa Vikhyatha Nata Sarvabhouma" (Universally-renowned star of acting). He was celebrated for his dedication, work ethic, and pioneering method acting style, influencing generations of actors across South India.NTR’s impact extended beyond cinema; in 1982, he founded the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) to champion Telugu pride and quickly became Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, serving three terms between 1983 and 1994. His tenure was marked by populist policies, administrative reforms, and a focus on social welfare. NTR’s charisma and screen persona translated into political popularity, making him a demigod-like figure for many in Andhra Pradesh.He received numerous honors, including the Padma Shri in 1968, three National Film Awards (for co-producing "Thodu Dongalu" and "Seetharama Kalyanam," and directing "Varakatnam"), the Nandi Award for Best Actor for "Kodalu Diddina Kapuram" (1970), and the inaugural Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu for "Badi Panthulu" (1972). In a 2013 CNN-IBN poll, he was voted the "Greatest Indian Actor of All Time" on the centenary of Indian cinema. NTR’s legacy endures through his iconic films, his contributions to Telugu identity and politics, and his family, many of whom are prominent in cinema and public life.