Remembering Legend ANR: 100 years of pure grit and inspiration

Legendary actor ANR - Full name Akkineni Nageswara Rao, took Telugu Cinema to new heights of popularity with his charisma, charm and versatility. He could adapt into any sort of a role be it Vipra Narayana, Devadasu, Donga Ramudu, Narada in Bhookailas, Arjuna in Sri Krishnarjuna Yuddham. Along with them, he had been part of timeless classics like Missamma, Mayabazaar, Mooga Manasulu, Buddhimanthudu, Prem Nagar, Premabhishekham Seetharamayya gari Manavaralu and many more.

With his charm, he could play convincingly lover boy characters for majority of his career. But he rose to fame in 1947, as young rebel warrior Balachandrudu in Palnati Yuddham. With a penchant to prove his versatility as an actor he took major career deafening risks and each time, he outsmarted naysayers and critics with his memorable performances.

After making an immense name for himself, the actor decided to give it back to the film industry that made him. Hence, he built Annapurna Studios that became a primary hub for Telugu Films to shoot, edit and produce with International Standard quality, over time. Recognising his great work that left many aspirants with immense amount of inspiration, Indian Government awarded him with Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan awards.

He even received Dada Saheb Phalke Award for his contribution to Indian Cinema. On his 100th birth anniversary, Annapurna Studios has decided to play 10 of his iconic movies at minimal ticket price in theatres from 20th - 22nd Sep. As he could not attain enough school or college education, ANR helped many remarkably talented kids to attain education, in a secretive manner. He never been pompous about his achievements and always stayed grounded thanking audiences for his success. With his dignity, talent, skills and grit, he left a huge impact on Indian Cinema that would always inspire many more youngsters to achieve their goals and be humble at the same time.