Nandamuri Balakrishna, who debuted in cinema five decades ago, is celebrating 50 years as an actor. The Telugu film industry is preparing to celebrate his golden jubilee. The curtain-raiser program was held today at FNCC to unveil the details of the ceremony scheduled for September 1.
Speaking on the occasion, Nandamuri Mohanakrishna said, "It is truly exceptional that my younger brother Balakrishna has completed 50 years as an actor. He has proven his versatility as an actor capable of portraying any role. Balakrishna has established himself as his grandfather's successor in the industry. He has followed in his father's footsteps not only in acting but also in politics. His recent election victory marks his third consecutive term, solidifying Hindupuram's status as a Nandamuri stronghold."
Producer Chadalavada Srinivasa Rao said, "On the occasion of NT Rama Rao's acting heir Nandamuri Balakrishna's 5th decade, the entire Telugu film industry will unite to showcase the power of Tollywood."
Producer Kaikala Nageswara Rao said, "Our family shares very close ties with the Nandamuri family. Rama Rao garu treated my brother Kaikala Satyanarayana like his own younger brother. After Anna garu, his successor Balakrishna also stands at the forefront in respecting producers."
Senior director Kodandarami Reddy said, "I have worked on more films with Balayya than anyone else. Having done 13 films together, you can understand how exceptional he is. Balayya also deeply respects directors. Completing 50 years as a hero is a remarkable achievement. People now chant 'Jai Balayya' wherever he goes. Balakrishna is the actor who captured the youth's pulse. As Rama Rao's successor, he has earned a stellar reputation in both films and politics."
Damodar Prasad said, "We are making Balakrishna's golden jubilee celebrations a prestigious event. We are inviting many people from South India. We will make this ceremony a memorable one."
TFCC President Bharat Bhushan was also present. Senior producer C Kalyan said, "I am excited about our Balayya's Golden Jubilee function. His films and collections are all record-breaking. I hope this function surpasses all those records. We are definitely going to create something extraordinary."
Director YVS Chowdhary said, "I am the son of a lorry driver, a fan of Rama Rao. I feel fortunate to have come to the industry and speak in front of you like this. Nandamuri Balakrishna was at home with his parents and teacher. I want his 50-year celebration to be inspirational for everyone."
Thummala Prasannakumar said, "Nandamuri Balakrishna is the only hero who entered as a hero and remains a hat-trick hero, a hat-trick MLA and is also serving the Basavatharakam Cancer Hospital. Balakrishna is the hero who created a record that no one can break in the future. Balakrishna garu has made many secret donations for service. He treated a teacher's daughter in Madanapalle with his own money. A relief program was undertaken in Rayalaseema during the floods."
Writer Paruchuri Gopalakrishna said, "Balayya has a unique body language. The thigh-slapping style suits Balayya. Every movie we wrote for him was successful."
Film Employees Federation President Anil Kumar said, "All the associations are happy to participate in Balakrishnagaru's program, celebrating 50 years in our industry. We are lucky that our association is also participating."
Director Boyapati Srinivas said, "It's commendable that all the film giants came together on one platform to recognize his hard work and honor him. I want to thank everyone involved in this program. Completing 50 years and 109 films in the industry without playing a role is extraordinary. I want him to always be energetic and make good movies."
