On Monday, legendary actor Chiranjeevi was honored with the ANR National Award, presented by Amitabh Bachchan. In his acceptance speech, Chiranjeevi delivered a heartfelt reflection, recalling a memorable incident from the 2007 Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Telugu film industry.
Chiranjeevi shared that, at that time, he had declined the “Legendary Award” due to some opposition and chose instead to place it in a time capsule. “I felt it was not yet my time,” he explained. “I said I would accept it only when I truly felt worthy. That day, I felt I hadn’t ‘won at home.’ But today, receiving the ANR National Award from Amitabh Bachchan, with my friend Nagarjuna presenting it wholeheartedly, I feel I’ve truly won at home.”
This revelation has stirred interest in the 2007 celebrations, with many revisiting the event’s videos to understand the historical moment.
During the Diamond Jubilee event, after Chiranjeevi received the Legendary Award, Dr. Mohan Babu spoke candidly, saying, “They’re honoring you as a ‘celebrity,’ not as a ‘legend.’ Perhaps they should publish a book detailing the qualities of a ‘celebrity’ and what truly defines a ‘legend.'”
Chiranjeevi responded by explaining his initial hesitation: “With senior legends like Dr. D. Ramanaidu, DVS Raju, Bapu, and Dasari Narayana Rao, I felt small. I’m in the same league as Venkatesh, Nagarjuna, and Balakrishna. I didn’t want to be set apart as a ‘legend.’ Though they convinced me to accept the award, I’m not accepting it now.”
He continued, “I’m placing this award and shawl in a time capsule. If, at the centenary celebration of Telugu cinema in 25 years, I am deemed worthy, and my peers agree, I’ll accept the award then. Until that time, I’ll keep serving the industry.”
Chiranjeevi’s poignant speech highlighted his respect for his peers and dedication to the Telugu film industry, resonating deeply with fans and colleagues alike.
