Amitabh Bachchan stated that it is a challenge for anyone to match the contributions of Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) to Indian cinema. He made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at the ANR National Award ceremony held at Annapurna Studios on Monday, where he presented the award to Chiranjeevi for the year 2024. He also praised the Akkineni family and Chiranjeevi during his speech.
“ANR demonstrated his excellence not only in Telugu cinema but across the entire film industry, bringing joy to countless audiences with his performances. I would like to thank Nagarjuna and his family for continuing ANR’s legacy,” Bachchan said. Referencing a poem by his father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, he emphasized, “My sons… simply being my sons does not make them my heirs. Those who truly become my heirs are my true sons,” illustrating how Nagarjuna and his family embody this principle regarding ANR.
Bachchan added humorously, “Whenever I call or ask for anything, my dear friend Chiranjeevi is always available. I thank him for his friendship, love, and hospitality. The meal you sent today will suffice for everyone at the hotel.”
He concluded by expressing his pride in being associated with the Telugu film industry: “Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, Nag Ashwin, and others have included me in their films. I proudly declare that I am also a member of the Telugu film industry. From now on, consider me part of the Telugu film community. Please do not forget to offer me a role in your next film. I extend my gratitude to the Akkineni Nageswara Rao Foundation, Nagarjuna, and his family for bestowing this honor upon me during the award presentation.”