SS Rajamouli Fondly Remembers Moments with ANR on His 100th Birth Anniversary

Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) was a towering figure in Telugu cinema, appearing in over 250 films in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi over an impressive 75-year career.On a special occasion at Annapurna Studios in Telanganas capital city, former Vice-President of India, M Venkaiah Naidu, unveiled a golden statue of ANR.

RRR director SS Rajamouli, who has admired ANR since childhood, spoke warmly about the legendary actor.Rajamouli shared that he had the privilege of spending a few precious minutes with ANR, which he treasures.

Rajamouli shared an intriguing conversation he had with ANR regarding his role in Missamma (1955).According to ANR, he chose the comedic role because, after portraying a drunkard in Devadasu (1953), he aimed to break free from that stereotype.

This decision showcased his versatility and the confidence he had as a superstar.ANR, born on September 20, 1923, in Ramapuram, made his lead role debut as Lord Rama in Sri Seeta Rama Jananam (1944).

Despite often playing mythological characters, ANR was an atheist.In 1975, he established Annapurna Studios, named after his wife.He and his wife had five children, including Telugu superstar Nagarjuna.ANR passed away on January 22, 2014.