Amitabh Bachchan lauds Chiranjeevi at ANR awards: “honored to be part of Telugu cinema”

Amitabh Bachchan recently honored Chiranjeevi at the ANR National Awards 2024. This award, given by the Akkineni International Foundation, recognizes artists for their lifetime contributions to cinema. While praising Chiranjeevi, Bachchan expressed his gratitude for both him and the Telugu film industry. During a heartfelt moment on stage, Chiranjeevi touched Bachchan’s feet after receiving the award, highlighting their mutual respect.

Bachchan delivered an emotional speech in memory of late Telugu actor-producer Akkineni Nageswara Rao. He began by acknowledging the challenge of addressing the audience after witnessing the celebration. “Namsakar. It is very difficult to stand here and say anything after what we have seen, heard and observed,” he stated. He thanked the Akkineni Nageswara Rao Foundation for the privilege of participating in the event.

He continued, expressing deep appreciation for Akkineni Nageswara Rao, who greatly enriched the entertainment and cultural landscape. “Nag, to you and your family, I want to express my gratitude for living up to the legacy that your respected father left us,” he said.

Bachchan reflected on his father’s poem, Vasihatnama, which discusses the nature of inheritance. He shared a poignant line, emphasizing the importance of true legacy: “Mere bete hone se mere utaradhikari nahi honge, jo mere itaradhikari honge wo mere bete honge.” This translates to “You can’t become my inheritor just because you are my son; my true inheritors will be my sons in spirit.”

He commended Nag and his family as true heirs to Akkineni Nageswara Rao’s legacy. Bachchan expressed his honor in being chosen to recognize Chiranjeevi. “Whenever I call, he is always there. Thank you, Chiranjeevi, for your friendship, concern, love, and hospitality,” he said, humorously noting the generous meals Chiranjeevi sends him. “You sent me so much lunch that I could have fed the whole hotel today,” he quipped.

Bachchan concluded by requesting to be treated as a member of the Telugu film industry and expressed hope to be included in future projects. He thanked Chiranjeevi once more, affirming his pride in being part of this vibrant film community.

Amitabh Bachchan was last seen in Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD, alongside stars like Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Kamal Haasan.