One of the persistent issues within the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has been the rumored rift between the party leadership and Junior NTR. The YSR Congress has often tried to exploit this perceived discord to its advantage. Figures such as Kodali Nani and Vallabhaneni Vamsi have repeatedly attempted to capitalize on this situation. For instance, they politicized Junior NTR wearing a blue shirt while voting, suggesting it was an indirect endorsement for the YSR Congress. This claim, however, was largely ridiculed and dismissed.
Despite the ongoing speculations, Junior NTR did not participate in the TDP’s campaign for the recent election. His interactions with TDP leaders have been minimal and strictly formal. Notably, Nara Lokesh, a key figure in TDP, consistently wishes Junior NTR on his birthday, which has sparked various interpretations. YSR Congress supporters have often accused Lokesh of merely seeking to gain political leverage through these gestures.
Elections have concluded, and the results are expected on June 4th. Despite the election being over, Lokesh continued his tradition of wishing Junior NTR on his birthday, posting on social media, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to @tarak9999. May God bless you with good health and happiness.” This act suggests that Lokesh’s birthday wishes are genuine and not merely a political strategy.
TDP supporters argue that YSR Congress leaders are desperate and will continue to look for opportunities to use Junior NTR against TDP. They believe these attempts are futile and only serve to create unnecessary drama.
The consistent birthday wishes from Lokesh seem to put an end to rumors about their strained relationship, indicating a personal gesture rather than a political one.