NTR 30th Death Anniversary: Telugu States Unite in Tribute to a Legend

The 30th death anniversary of Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) founder of the Telugu Desam Party and a towering symbol of Telugu self-respect was observed across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on Sunday. From villages to cities, people gathered in large numbers to pay tribute to the legendary actor-turned-leader, decorating his statues with garlands and remembering his lasting impact on both cinema and public life.

At NTR Ghat in Hyderabad , the memorial witnessed a heavy turnout from early morning as family members, party leaders and thousands of admirers offered floral tributes. Hindupuram MLA and actor Nandamuri Balakrishna recalled his father’s influence, saying NTR may be physically absent but remains immortal in Telugu hearts . He described NTR as a rare figure who didn’t just rule cinema but also earned the people’s affection through his powerful performances in mythological, heroic and even negative roles.

Leaders across parties also highlighted the political legacy NTR left behind. BJP MP Daggubati Purandeswari said NTR changed the political culture of the state by proving politics was about service to the poor , not merely power. She pointed out that initiatives like rice at Rs 2 per kg , housing schemes for the underprivileged , and equal property rights for women became historic milestones, shaping welfare discussions for decades.

Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu , in a post on X , called NTR a “ yugapurush ” who rewrote history, praising him as a guiding star in cinema and a formidable force in politics. He credited NTR with taking Telugu pride to a wider stage and described him as a leader every Telugu person can remember with honour.

Even three decades after his death on January 18, 1996 , NTR’s influence remains powerful both as a cultural icon who acted in nearly 300 films and as a leader whose welfare-first decisions continue to inspire present-day governance. The crowds at his memorial and the tributes from across political lines reflect how NTR remains a unique figure whose legacy still resonates strongly with ordinary people.