Akkineni Nageswara Rao (September 20, 1923 – January 22, 2014), affectionately known as ANR or Natasamrat, was a legendary Indian actor, producer, and philanthropist who dominated Telugu cinema for over seven decades. Born in Ramapuram, Andhra Pradesh, into a modest farming family, he rose to prominence with roles in classics like Devadasu (1953) and Mayabazar (1957). He received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1990), Padma Vibhushan (2011), and multiple state honors, while founding Annapurna Studios and contributing to the shift of Telugu cinema to Hyderabad. His legacy endures through his family, including son Nagarjuna and grandson Naga Chaitanya.
Yearwise Biography
- 1923: Born on September 20 in Ramapuram, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh (then Madras Presidency), to Akkineni Venkataratnam and Akkineni Punnamma, the youngest of five brothers in a lower-middle-class farming family. Limited to primary schooling due to financial constraints.
- 1930s (Early Career): Began acting in theatre at age 10, performing female roles due to cultural norms, in plays like Harishchandra and Vipranarayana. Discovered by producer Ghantasala Balaramayya at Vijayawada railway station.
- 1941: Debuted in Telugu cinema with Dharmapatni at age 17, playing a minor role, marking his entry into films.
- 1949: Married Annapurna Akkineni on February 18, beginning a lifelong partnership. Starred in Laila Majnu, establishing himself as a romantic lead.
- 1953: Achieved stardom with Devadasu, widely regarded as his best portrayal, earning critical acclaim.
- 1954: Played Tamil saint Vipra Narayana in Vipra Narayana, showcasing his versatility in biographical roles.
- 1956: Starred in Tenali Ramakrishna, which won the All India Certificate of Merit for Best Feature Film.
- 1957: Featured in the iconic Mayabazar, a commercial and critical success, cementing his mythological and comedic range.
- 1960: Portrayed Sanskrit poet Kalidasa in Mahakavi Kalidasu, earning further acclaim.
- 1961: Played 12th-century poet Jayadeva in Bhakta Jayadeva and starred in Batasari, a notable romantic drama.
- 1964: Portrayed sculptor Jakanachari in Amarasilpi Jakkanna and starred in Mooga Manasulu, a hit romantic film.
- 1966: Became the second actor after Sivaji Ganesan to play nine roles in Navaratri, showcasing his versatility.
- 1971: Played Marathi saint Tukaram in Bhakta Tukaram and starred in the romantic hit Prema Nagar.
- 1974: Underwent his first heart surgery, with doctors predicting a 14-year lifespan, demonstrating resilience.
- 1976: Founded Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad, inaugurated by President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, aiding Telugu cinema’s relocation from Madras.
- 1988: Underwent a second heart surgery after a stroke, surpassing medical expectations by living 25 more years.
- 1990: Awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest cinematic honor, recognizing his lifetime contribution.
- 2006: Played mystic poet Kabir in Sri Ramadasu, adding to his biographical legacy.
- 2009: Portrayed Valmiki in Sri Rama Rajyam, his penultimate film role.
- 2011: Received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, and founded Annapurna College of Film and Media with his family.
- 2013: Diagnosed with colon cancer, announced publicly on October 19, and continued filming Manam despite health challenges.
- 2014: Last public appearance on January 14 at Annapurna Studios’ celebration. Died on January 22 due to a cardiac arrest at Care Hospital, Hyderabad, at age 90. Cremated on January 23 at Annapurna Studios, survived by wife Annapurna (died 2011), sons Venkat and Nagarjuna, daughters Saroja, Sathyavathi, and Naga Susheela, and grandchildren.
Family
- Parents: Akkineni Venkataratnam and Akkineni Punnamma.
- Wife: Annapurna Akkineni (married 1949, died 2011).
- Children: Venkat, Nagarjuna (actor), Saroja, Sathyavathi, Naga Susheela.
- Grandchildren: Include Naga Chaitanya, Akhil Akkineni, Sushanth Anumolu.
Health
- Robust early career; underwent heart surgeries in 1974 and 1988; diagnosed with colon cancer in 2013, leading to his death in 2014.
Wealth
- Accumulated significant wealth through films and Annapurna Studios, though exact figures are unavailable. Donated to education (e.g., GITAM University scholarships) and established institutions like Annapurna College.
Honors and Awards
- National: Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1990), Padma Vibhushan (2011), Padma Bhushan (1988), Padma Shri (1968).
- State: Seven Nandi Awards, Raghupathi Venkaiah Award (1989), Tamil Nadu State Film Award.
- Filmfare: Five South Awards.
- Other: ANR National Award (instituted by his foundation), honored posthumously at the 45th International Film Festival of India (2014).
Dear Sir,
ReplyDeleteBefore we proceed any further please let me know what would be his height because at the such early degrees of Lagna raising how come person will be such short in stature..
Dear Sir, with out the strength of 5th lord Saturn and his no connection to 10th hous how ANR became such a renowned personality please explain
ReplyDeleteone way you are saying.. ANR education is curtailed to the level of elementary education because of Rahu and now you are saying because of the same rahu he acquired great knowledge. through working experience.. why didnt you thrown any light on 4th and 9th houses..
ReplyDeletei think either he should have born in kanya lagna or Vrischika.. lagna..