Akkineni Nageswara Rao - A Lifestory

Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), born on September 20, 1923, was a legendary Telugu actor and producer whose 73-year career included 255 films, making him a transformative figure in Indian cinema. From a modest start, he debuted with "Dharmapatni" (1941) and became iconic through roles in films like "Devadasu," "Batasari," and "Mayabazar." ANR’s versatility extended across genres, and his visionary move to establish Annapurna Studios helped shift Telugu cinema to Hyderabad, greatly influencing its growth. Known for his humility, he supported film crews and even played female roles early in his career. Honored with the Padma Vibhushan and Dada Saheb Phalke Award, his final film "Manam" (2014) featured three Akkineni generations. ANR passed away on January 22, 2014, leaving an enduring legacy of dedication, charm, and humor in Telugu cinema.