Mahanadu Voices Strong Demand for Bharat Ratna for NTR

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has urged the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna on Telugu Desam Party founder and former Chief Minister N. T. Rama Rao (NTR) , highlighting his lasting impact on Indian politics and Telugu identity .

Addressing the second day of the TDP’s annual “Mahanadu” held on NTR’s birth anniversary, Chandrababu said the party had given its unanimous support to the proposal. He described the appeal as a reflection of the emotions of Telugu people worldwide , urging the Union government to honour NTR’s legacy at the highest level.

He said NTR was a rare leader who reshaped India’s political landscape while also emerging as a major cultural icon through his celebrated film career. After achieving immense success in cinema, NTR entered politics and founded the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in 1982. Within just nine months, he became Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, marking a historic political shift . Chandrababu also noted his influence on coalition politics at the national level.

State Minister Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy said the demand for Bharat Ratna is not limited to the party but represents a wider aspiration of Telugu society globally . He described NTR as a symbol of self-respect for Telugu people and credited him with elevating the global profile of Telugu language and culture . He added that the appeal would be formally submitted to the Prime Minister.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to NTR on social media platform X , praising his commitment to public welfare , governance, and empowerment of weaker sections. He also acknowledged NTR’s contributions to Indian cinema and said the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh remains committed to his ideals.

Born in 1923, NTR acted in nearly 300 films and remains one of the most influential figures in Telugu cinema. After entering politics, he served as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for three terms, leaving a lasting mark on both state and national politics .