NTR Remembered: Modi Hails Visionary Leader on 103rd Jayanti

Marking the 103rd birth anniversary of N.T. Rama Rao, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the late actor-turned-politician as a guiding light whose ideals of public service and cinematic excellence continue to inspire millions. Writing on social media platform X, the Prime Minister praised NTR’s dedication to the upliftment of the underprivileged through innovative welfare programs that granted dignity to the poor. He also acknowledged NTR’s unmatched contribution to Telugu cinema, where his mythological characters still resonate with audiences. PM Modi noted that the current NDA administration in Andhra Pradesh, under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, is working to realize the vision NTR had for Telugu-speaking people. NTR’s life story is one of remarkable transitions: from a government job to superstardom in over 300 films, and then to founding the Telugu Desam Party at sixty. His 1983 electoral triumph broke decades of Congress rule, while schemes like subsidized rice became symbols of his pro-poor governance. Despite a short-lived coup attempt in 1984, he returned stronger, eventually serving a third term in 1994. Today, his blend of mass appeal and administrative reform stands as a model for aspiring leaders across India.