Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao described legendary actor and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) as an eternal source of inspiration for the Telugu community, stating that his ideology and vision will continue to guide future generations.
The minister was speaking at the fourth anniversary celebrations of the NTR Literature Committee, held at Filmnagar Cultural Centre in Hyderabad on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, Tummala Nageswara Rao said his own political journey was shaped by the encouragement and inspiration of NTR. He praised the legendary leader for empowering backward classes, weaker sections, and underprivileged communities by providing them greater political representation and opportunities.
He appreciated the efforts of the NTR Literature Committee, led by T.D. Janardhan, for preserving and promoting the life and legacy of NTR. According to the minister, documenting the achievements and ideals of such a visionary leader will continue to inspire society for generations.
Former Telangana Assembly Speaker M. Madhusudana Chary said NTR was a transformational leader who gave political representation to several communities that had long remained outside the mainstream. He remarked that irrespective of political affiliations, NTR remains an inspiration whose contribution to society cannot be forgotten.
The fourth anniversary celebrations of the NTR Literature Committee witnessed the participation of several prominent personalities, including NTR's son Ramakrishna, Telangana Press Academy Chairman K. Srinivas Reddy, Lok Satta founder Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, producers K.S. Rama Rao, T. Prasanna Kumar and Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao, along with several academicians, writers and cultural personalities.
On the occasion, the committee presented copies of its published books, including Yugapurushudu, Shakapurushudu, Taraka Ramam and Sajeeva Charitra, to the distinguished guests. Producer Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao, who purchased NTR's Chennai residence and transformed it into a museum dedicated to the legendary actor-politician, was also felicitated during the event.
NTR Literature Committee Chairman T.D. Janardhan said the organisation was established during NTR's birth centenary celebrations with the objective of digitally preserving his life and achievements. Over the past four years, the committee has shared daily content about NTR, published several books, organised literary events, and conducted programmes across India and abroad, receiving overwhelming support from Telugu communities worldwide.
Telangana Press Academy Chairman K. Srinivas Reddy described NTR's entry into politics as one of the biggest turning points in the history of Telugu politics. He said that despite facing criticism, NTR earned respect through his powerful speeches and was also remembered for supporting journalists during his tenure as Chief Minister.
Lok Satta founder Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan said NTR brought national recognition to the Telugu language and culture, elevating the pride and identity of Telugu people across India. He added that NTR's commitment to preserving Telugu heritage remains unmatched.
Former minister Motkupalli Narsimhulu recalled his long association with NTR, stating that the legendary leader transformed countless lives through his welfare-oriented governance and transparent political leadership.
Producer T. Prasanna Kumar said NTR not only elevated Telugu cinema to global recognition but also sacrificed a highly successful acting career to dedicate himself to public service. As Chief Minister, he introduced several landmark welfare initiatives that benefited millions of people.
Nandamuri Ramakrishna said the committee continues to work towards introducing younger generations to NTR's extraordinary journey as both an iconic actor and a visionary political leader. He expressed confidence that the organisation would continue expanding its efforts in the coming years.
Producer Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao described NTR as his family's lifelong inspiration and said the legendary leader brought revolutionary changes to the lives of Telugu people through both cinema and politics. Although NTR is no longer physically present, his ideals and influence continue to live on in the hearts of millions, he added.
The programme concluded with felicitations for several distinguished guests and contributors, including Kannada translator Dr. R. Devanna, who is translating the book Shakapurushudu into Kannada. The event was coordinated by Gummadi Gopalakrishna and Kalaratna Bhageeratha, while Doppalapudi Ram Mohan Rao delivered the vote of thanks.
