Chiranjeevi

About

Chiranjeevi, born Konidela Siva Sankara Vara Prasad on August 22, 1955, is one of the towering figures in Indian cinema, particularly in Telugu cinema. He is not only a notable actor but also a politician who has made substantial contributions to both fields. With a career spanning more than four decades, Chiranjeevi has starred in over 150 films, making him one of the most prolific and beloved actors in South India. His influence extends beyond the silver screen as he has a substantial presence in public life through his political endeavors.

Before Fame

Chiranjeevi was born in Mogalthur, a small village in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. He nurtured an interest in acting from an early age and pursued a degree in commerce from Sri Y N College at Narsapur. He later joined the Madras Film Institute in Chennai to hone his acting skills. His dedication and hard work paid off when he landed his first role in the film "Punadhirallu" in 1978, although "Pranam Khareedu" was the first to release at the box office.

Career Highlights

Chiranjeevi's rise to fame was meteoric. The success of movies like "Khaidi" (1983) established him as a leading actor in Telugu cinema. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between dramatic roles, action-packed sequences, and comedy, which garnered him a massive fan base. Notable films include "Swayam Krushi," "Rudraveena," "Gharana Mogudu," and "Indra."

Trivia

• Chiranjeevi is often referred to as the "Megastar" by his fans and the media.
• He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2006 for his contributions to cinema.
• Apart from acting, Chiranjeevi is an accomplished dancer, known for his unique dance style, which has inspired many contemporary actors.
• He founded the Chiranjeevi Charitable Trust in 1998, which includes a blood bank and eye bank, dedicated to helping the less fortunate.

Family Life

Chiranjeevi comes from a family with strong ties to the film industry. He is married to Surekha, and the couple has three children: Sushmitha, Sreeja, and Ram Charan. Ram Charan has followed in his father's footsteps and has established himself as a successful actor in Telugu cinema.

Associated With

Chiranjeevi has been associated with many prominent figures in Indian cinema. He has worked alongside icons such as N. T. Rama Rao, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Sridevi. In the political arena, he floated his own party, Praja Rajyam, in 2008, which later merged with the Indian National Congress in 2011. He served as the Minister of Tourism for the Government of India from 2012 to 2014.

In conclusion, Chiranjeevi's contribution to Indian cinema and public life is monumental. His life journey from a small village to becoming a megastar and an influential politician is a testament to his talent, dedication, and charisma.