Did PM Modi insult NTR by mentioning only ANR?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi regularly addresses the nation through his “Mann Ki Baat” program on the last Sunday of every month. In the 117th episode, he discussed several significant topics including a special mention of late Telugu actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR). Modi praised ANR’s contributions to Indian cinema stating how his films enhanced traditional Indian values and elevated the Telugu film industry to greater heights. Fans of ANR expressed joy over the recognition.
PM Modi also lauded Bollywood director Tapan Sinha and celebrated Raj Kapoor’s efforts to bring sensitive Indian themes to global audiences. However, his omission of NTR’s name while acknowledging ANR stirred controversy. Many NTR fans took to social media to criticize the Prime Minister for failing to mention NTR despite his immense contributions to the Telugu film industry.
ఈ రోజు మన్ కి బాత్ ప్రధాని మోడీ ప్రసంగం లో ANR గారి గురించి !#నటసామ్రాట్#Natasamrat #ANR#ఏఏన్ఆర్ @iamnagarjuna pic.twitter.com/FaL7YFWAFU
— Lakshmi Bhavani (@iambhavani1) December 29, 2024
Historically both NTR and ANR are considered pillars of Telugu cinema taking it to national and international levels. NTR’s fans expressed disappointment that their idol’s name was excluded accusing Modi of neglecting NTR’s legacy. Some netizens commented that it would have been better if Modi had mentioned both legends while others dismissed the controversy as unnecessary.
The debate took a political turn as well, with critics alleging that Modi’s omission of NTR’s name could be linked to current political alliances. Despite TDP’s inclusion in the BJP-led coalition, some speculate that Modi’s failure to acknowledge NTR might indicate indifference.
Meanwhile, Modi stated how the global spotlight is now on the Telugu film industry. He also announced that India will host the World Audio-Visual Entertainment event for the first time next year emphasizing the growing recognition of Indian cinema worldwide.
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