Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tribute to Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, widely known as NTR, on his 103rd birth anniversary. Modi took to X to honour the former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and legendary actor. “Tributes to the great NTR Garu on his birth anniversary. He is fondly remembered for his commitment towards public welfare and governance which ensured dignity for the poor and marginalised,” the Prime Minister wrote.
Modi also noted that NTR’s film work continues to draw audiences across generations. He added that the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh, led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, remains committed to carrying forward the aspirations NTR held for the people of the state.
Tributes to the great NTR Garu on his birth anniversary. He is fondly remembered for his commitment towards public welfare and governance which ensured dignity for the poor and marginalised. His contributions to cinema continue to captivate generations. His life and ideals remain…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2026
Who was NTR?
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao was born on May 28, 1923, and passed away on January 18, 1996. He was 72. He was born in Nimmakuru village in Krishna district.
NTR is credited with promoting Telugu identity and self-respect at a time when all South Indians were clubbed together as ‘Madrasis’. He wore that cultural pride as a badge throughout both his careers, in cinema and in politics.
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NTR acted in over 320 films bringing life to every character he played. He was famous for on-screen portrayals of Lord Rama, Krishna, various mythological and historical figures. He also handled modern characters with equal ease. Apart from acting, NTR also worked as director and producer.
His baritone voice and command over Telugu language made him cultural icon. His family members including son Nandamuri Balakrishna and grandson Jr NTR continue to carry his legacy in cinema.
Entry into politics
NTR founded the Telugu Desam Party in 1982 and served three terms as Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh. His entry into politics was unlike any seen before. He launched TDP with a massive public meeting in Tirupati and followed it with a state-wide tour covering 35,000 kilometres. He addressed crowds from atop a campaign vehicle called the Chaitanya Ratham, drawing massive turnouts at every stop.
NTR contested the 1983 Assembly elections as a political newcomer and won with a strong majority. He took oath as Chief Minister on January 9, 1983.
Governance and welfare
NTR’s time in power was marked by a series of bold decisions. He fulfilled his poll promise of supplying rice at Rs 2 per kilogram through the public distribution system, which became a major relief for families living below the poverty line.
NTR brought many changes including property rights for women and decentralisation of power. He made Telugu the official language of administration at all levels, rationalised government corporations from 48 to 34, discontinued pensions for former legislators, and barred government doctors from private practice.