In a momentous announcement on the eve of Republic Day 2024, the Indian government unveiled the prestigious Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awardees, with Megastar Chiranjeevi standing prominently among the distinguished recipients. The legendary actor is poised to receive the Padma Vibhushan, a testament to his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema.
Chiranjeevi, born Konidela Sivasankara Varaprasad on August 22, 1955, embarked on a transformative journey in the world of acting, adopting the name that would become synonymous with cinematic excellence. His impact on Indian cinema is colossal, with an impressive record of 155 films in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada.
The Padma Vibhushan accolade adds another jewel to Chiranjeevi’s already adorned career, where he had previously received the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contributions to the film industry and commendable philanthropic efforts. This honour further solidifies his status as a luminary in the film fraternity.
Chiranjeevi’s cinematic journey commenced in 1978 with Punadhirallu, but it was the 1992 release, Gharana Mogudu, that propelled him to stardom. The film scripted history by becoming the first Telugu film to surpass Rs 10 crore in box office collections, catapulting Chiranjeevi to the summit as the highest-paid actor in India.
Despite his dominance in the Telugu film industry, Chiranjeevi made a foray into politics, founding the Praja Rajyam Party in 2008 and participating in the 2009 Andhra Pradesh election. His commitment to societal welfare is evident through the Chiranjeevi Charitable Trust (CCT), established in 1998.
Chiranjeevi’s journey witnessed a triumphant comeback with notable films like Khaidi No 150 and Waltair Veerayya, showcasing his enduring passion for the craft. His legacy is etched not only in his dance prowess and realistic action sequences but also in his remarkable journey from a non-filmy background to cinematic superstardom.
As he receives the Padma Vibhushan, it symbolizes not just an individual honour but a celebration of an icon who has left an indelible mark on the soul of Indian cinema. The Telugu cinema industry joins in celebrating the recognition of Megastar Chiranjeevi, a true legend.
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