Chiranjeevi
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Chiranjeevi | |
|---|---|
| File:Chiru.JPG | |
| Born | Konidela Siva Shankara Vara Prasad |
| Other names | Annayya, Supreme Hero (obsolete), Mega Star, Chiru |
| Occupation(s) | Actor, Politician |
| Years active | 1977 to present |
| Spouse | Surekha |
| Children | Sushmita, Ram Charan Teja, Srija |
| Parent(s) | Venkata Rao, Anjana Devi |
| Awards | Padma Bhushan |
Chiranjeevi (Telugu: చిరంజీవి), born as Konidela Siva Shankara Vara Prasad[1] on August 22, 1955, also known as Mega Star is a three-time Nandi Award and seven-time Best Actor(Filmfare-Telugu)award -winning actor in the Telugu cinema industry. He is also a recipient of the Padma Bhushan Award. He announced his formal entry into politics on 26th August 2008 and founded a political party named Praja Rajyam.[2]
Early life
Vara Prasad is the eldest son of Late Sri Venkat Rao and Smt Anjana Devi. He was born on 22 August, 1955 in Narsapur,a Town on the Banks of River Godavari in the West Godavari District in Andhra Pradesh. He spent his childhood in his native village with his grand parents, while his family was else where because of his father's occupation.[3] He has two sisters and two brothers; his younger brother, Nagendra Babu is a film producer and a film actor, his youngest brother, Pawan Kalyan is also a Telugu film actor. Varaprasad did his schooling in Nidadavolu, Gurajala, Ponnuru, Mangalagiri and Mogalturu. He won many prizes for his acting skills in school, especially for the performance as Parandamayya Panthulu. After high school he joined Bi.P.C in C.S.R.Sharma Jr. College at Ongole. Following that he finished his BCOM from Y.N. College in Narasapur.[4] He is an NCC cadet.Chiranjeevi had participated in the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi as an NCC cadet in the early 70s. [5] After his graduation at Y.N. College in Narsapuram, Chiranjeevi moved to Chennai to seek a career in acting. This was in 1977.
Career
Chiranjeevi was called by different names at different stages in his life. At high school level, he was called KSSV Prasad. During his college days, he was called Prasad. At home, he was called ‘Shankara Babu’.
Varaprasad felt that his name ‘Sankar’ would not be appealing to the people. He had a dream one night in which lord hanuman called him as Chiranjeevi. Then he narrated the same incident to his mother and she advised him to change his screen name to Chiranjeevi. He is also a great devotee of Lord Hanuman and hence he changed his name to Chiranjeevi which in Hindu mythology refers to Lord Hanuman.[6]
Early career
After completing his Diploma in Acting in Chennai, Chiranjeevi got an offer to act in ‘Punadi Rallu’in 1978, But the movie got delayed. Producer-director T Kranti Kumar, who had seen his photograph gave him a role in the film, ‘Pranam Khareedu’ which was his first release.. Subsequently, director Bapu signed him for ‘Manavoori Pandavulu’, where he first gained some recognition. In the beginning of his career, Chiranjeevi donned villain roles in films like Kukka Kaatuki Cheppu Debba, Kotthapeta Rowdi etc. He was known for his speedy dance movements and risky hair raising fights. His success started after his quite acclaimed role in 'Initilo Ramayya Vidhilo Krishnayya' (1981). Between 1978 and 1983 October (till the release of Khaidi) he had acted in about 60 movies, mostly in secondary roles, some as second hero, some as villain and some as character roles.[7]
Khaidi, directed by A Kodandarami Reddy and produced by Thirupathi Reddy of Samyuktha movies, was the first film to catapult Chiranjeevi into the big league. The movie was heavily inspired by Hollywood blockbuster First Blood.[8] He sizzled across a two and a half hour drama which in the end changed the very face of heroism in the Telugu motion picture industry. This film marked the beginning of his long and successful collaboration with director Kodanda Rami Reddy. Even today,Chiranjeevi singles out this film in his entire career that, according to him, satisfied him in everyway.[9]
The film Pasivadi Pranam, released in 1987, gave Chiranjeevi super stardom. He introduced "break dance", a new style of dance form to the telugu film audiences. This movie was his first silver jubilee hit film.In the same year he acted in SwayamKrushi in the direction of K. Viswanath and won Nandi Award for his performance.[10] Even though over eager critics were keen to typecast him as a song and dance hero, his films were sufficiently ambiguous to defy easy ideological categorization.
Chiranjeevi, has stated, "I play characters of ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances. I like characters who have a perspective for right and wrong." He has also noted "my movies are entertainment oriented, not moral or political.[11]" From then onwards chiranjeevi was called "Supreme Hero" by his fans.
This was a glorius period in his career with movies like Adavi Donga, Donga Mogudu, Yamudiki Mogudu, Aaradhana, Rudraveena, Challenge, Vijetha, and Kondaveeti Donga all of which went on to become blockbusters in the telugu film industry.
Further progress
The title "Megastar" was used for the first time while publicizing K. S. Rama Rao’s movie Marana Mrudangam which released in August 1988. In the same year was released Rudraveena directed by K.Balachander, which bagged the "Nargis Dutt" award for Chiranjeevi in the national arena.[12] The title was just a publicity gimmick and did not catch on with his fans at that time. But the title was used consistently from then onwards.
The first half of 90’s decade peaked Chiranjeevi’s career graph to soaring heights for every movie released becoming huge box office hits like Gang Leader, Rowdy Alludu, Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari and Gharana Mogudu to name a few. After the success of so many movies his fans lapped up the title of Megastar which is used even to this day.
Due to the phenomenal success of his movies in the early 90's, expectations about his movies box-office runs were very high. Chiranjeevi threw a self-declared 'gap' after Rickshavodu to have a self-scanning of his conscience and thus emerged out with more mature and versatile portrayal in the film Hitler that ended his lean patch.
Indra released in 2002 in more than 200 theatres in Andhra Pradesh. The movie opened to packed theatres and went on to become one of the biggest hits of chiranjeevi's career. It truly reinvented the star in him and rejuvenated all his fan clubs all over the state. He also won the Nandi Award for best actor that year for the film.
Personal life
Chiranjeevi tied the wedding knot to Surekha, daughter of eminent yesteryear comedian Allu Rama Lingaiah, on February 20, 1980. He has 3 children, Eldest daughter Sushmita, Son Ram Charan Teja & youngest daughter Srija.
Political Life
Chiranjeevi's foray into politics was highly anticipated in the media and political circles since 2007.[13][14] While it was reported that he was seeking opinion of people during the latter half of 2007, the media also suggested that he would announce the decision in January 2008.[13] Amongst media speculations, he would launch his political party as an alternative to the ruling Indian National Congress and Telugu Desam Party in his native state of Andhra Pradesh.[15] Even before the party's launch, several political leaders from the Andhra Pradesh such as Harirama Jogaiah from Congress and K. Vidyadhar Rao and B. Nagi Reddy from the Telugu Desam Party.[15].He made the entire media to create hype about his political party for more than 9 months.In this way he is more starving towards publicity.
Chiranjeevi inaugurated his party office in Jubilee Hills on August 10, 2008. The actor came with his family members and a special poojas were performed. Speaking to the media after the inauguration, Chiranjeevi said, “I would like to extend my condolences to the bereaved families who lost their lives in the incessant rains occurred in the past 3 three days”. He also added: “ I request all my fans to extend help to the people who are in need. I would be announcing my party and agenda and officially launch the party this month. I will be answering all the questions posed by the media on the day of my party announcement."
On Aug 17, 2008 at 2:30pm Chiranjeevi has addressed a press conference in his party office to announce his entry into politics. He told he was very much inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Ambedkar and Mahatma Jyotirao Phule. Chiranjeevi has announced that a Public meeting will be conducted in Tirupati on Aug 26, 2008, which falls on Mother Theresa's birthday. He has told that the details of his new party and future plan will be declared in Tirupati meeting.
On Aug 26, 2008, in the public meeting held at Avilala near Tirupati, he announced the party name as Praja Rajyam saying the Rajyam (Rule) belongs to Praja (People). In effect he is getting power back to the people so they can decide what they want and how they want.He inaugurated the flag and the symbol in the meeting. The flag is combination of white and green color with red colored rising sun. A yellow colored line is around the sun in the middle. As per Chiru Red indicates Hinduism, white for Christianity and green for Muslims. The yellow line will be the smile on all the faces. Through this he explained this party is for everyone. He swears for “Santhosandhra”, which means happy Andhra Pradesh. The theme song of the party presented on the big screens, which involved the emotional political scenes from his movies.But his policies resemble same like other parties,but people couldnt find what the Change called by him thru his policies.
Awards and Honours
In January 2006, Chiranjeevi received the Padma Bhushan, the third highest civilian award in India because of his contributions to the Telugu Film Industry and for his social work. It was presented to him by the President of India.Cite error: A <ref> tag is missing the closing </ref> (see the help page).
In August 2007, Chiranjeevi received South Filmfare Special Legend Award presented by Amitabh Bachchan. He announced the political party name as Praja Rajyam on 26 august 2008 at Avilala cheruvu in TIRUPATI.
Filmography
References
- ^ "www.idlebrain.com/celeb/starhomes/chiranjeevi/index.html".
- ^ "http://specials.rediff.com/news/2008/aug/27sli1.htm".
{{cite web}}: External link in|title= - ^ "Early life".
- ^ "Education".
- ^ http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/004200808151521.htm
- ^ "Changing screen name".
- ^ "Early career".
- ^ "Khaidi on IMDB".
- ^ "Chiranjeevi on Khaidi".
- ^ "Chiranjeevi Dances".
- ^ "Chiranjeevi on Khaidi".
- ^ "Megastar".
- ^ a b "Andhra Pradesh: Chiranjeevi entering politics?". Press Trust of India. Rediff.com. 2007-12-07. Retrieved 2008-08-16]].
{{cite news}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=and|date=(help) - ^ "So what's cooking Chiru?". Times News Network. Indiatimes.com. 2007-09-05. Retrieved 2008-08-16]].
{{cite news}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=and|date=(help) - ^ a b "Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi set to join politics". Agencies. Expressindia.com. 2008-08-05. Retrieved 2008-08-16]].
{{cite news}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=and|date=(help)
External links
- Chiranjeevi at IMDb
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1978 | Pranam Khareedu | Narasimha | First Released film |
| Manavoori Pandavulu | Parthu | ||
| 1979 | Kothala Raayudu | ||
| Sri Rambantu | |||
| Idikatha Kaadu | |||
| Punaadi Rallu | First acted film | ||
| I Love You | Ramesh | ||
| Kotta Alludu | |||
| Kukka Katuku Cheppu Debba | |||
| Tayaramma Bangarayya | |||
| 1980 | Rakta Sambandham | ||
| Mogudu Kavali | |||
| Prema Tarangalu | Kumar | ||
| Love in Singapore | Suresh | ||
| Thathayya Premaleelalu | Bhargav | ||
| Kaali | |||
| Nakili Manishi | Prasad / Shyam | ||
| Punnami Naagu | Naagulu | ||
| Mosagadu | |||
| Jathara | |||
| Aarani Mantalu | |||
| Chandipriya | |||
| Kottapeta Rowdy | Guest Appearance | ||
| Agni Samskaram | |||
| 1981 | Kirayi Rowdylu | ||
| Chattaniki Kallu Levu | Vijay | ||
| Priya | |||
| Srirasthu Subhamasthu | |||
| 47 Rojulu | |||
| Rani Kasula Rangamma | |||
| Ooriki Ichina Maata | Ramudu | ||
| Nyayam Kavali | Suresh Kumar | ||
| Prema Natakam | Guest Appearance | ||
| Tirugu Leni Manishi | |||
| Todu Dongalu | |||
| Paravathi Parameshwarulu | |||
| Adavaallu Meeku Johaarulu | |||
| 1982 | Bandhalu Anubandhalu | ||
| Manchu Pallaki | |||
| Mondi Ghatam | Ravindra | ||
| Yamakinkarudu | Vijay | ||
| Billa Ranga | Billa | ||
| Patnam Vachina Prativrathalu | Gopi | ||
| Tingu Rangadu | Rangadu | ||
| Radha My Darling | |||
| Sitadevi | |||
| Idi Pellantara | |||
| Subhalekha | Narasimha Murthy | Winner: Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) | |
| Bandipotu Simham | |||
| Intlo Ramayya Veedilo Krishnayya | Rajasekharam | First Diamond Jubilee film | |
| 1983 | Sangarshana | Dilip | |
| Manthri gari Viyyankudu | Babji | ||
| Khaidi | Suryam | Khaidi catapulted Chiranjeevi into the big league and gave him a star image. Has features of Silvester Stallon's Rambo: First Blood. | |
| Simhapoori Simham | Vijay | ||
| Maa Inti Premayanam | |||
| Roshagadu | Sikander | ||
| Maga Maharaju | Raju | ||
| Gudachari No.1 | Vijay | ||
| Puli Bebbuli | |||
| Shivudu Shivudu Shivudu | |||
| Aalyashikaram | |||
| Abhilasha | Chiranjeevi | ||
| Palletoori Monagadu | |||
| Prema Pichollu | Ravi | ||
| 1984 | Rustum | Gopi | |
| Agnigundam | Vijay | ||
| Naagu | Naagu | ||
| Intiguttu | Vijay Kumar | Winner: Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) | |
| Challenge | Gandhi | ||
| Mahanagaramlo Mayagadu | |||
| Devanthakudu | |||
| Hero | Krishna | ||
| Goonda | Kalidas/Raja | ||
| Allulu Vasthunnaru | |||
| 1985 | Vijetha | Chinnababu | |
| Adavi Donga | Kalidas | ||
| Raktha Sindhuram | Gandra Goddali & Inspector Gopi | ||
| Puli | Kranthi | ||
| Jwala | Raju | ||
| Chiranjeevi | Chiranjeevi | ||
| Donga | Phani | "Golimar..." song has the features of Michael Jackson's super hit album "Thriller". Very famous in Youtube. | |
| Chattam Tho Poratam | Ravi Shankar | ||
| 1986 | Chanakya Shapadham | Chanakya | |
| Dairyavanthudu | |||
| Rakshasudu | Has features of Silvester Stallon's "Cobra" | ||
| Chantabbai | Pandu Ranga Rao | Has features of Peter Seller's "A shot in the dark" | |
| Veta | Raanaa Pratap Kumar Verma | ||
| Magadheerudu | |||
| Kondaveeti Raja | Raja | ||
| Kirathakudu | Charan | Has features of Kurt Russell's "Escape from L.A." | |
| 1987 | Jebu Donga | Chitti Babu | |
| Swayamkrushi | Sambaiah | Winner: Nandi Award for Best Actor | |
| Pasivadi Pranam | Madhu | ||
| Chakravarthy | Chakravarthy | ||
| Aradhana | Puli Raju | ||
| Donga Mogudu | Ravi Teja/Nagaraju | ||
| 1988 | Yudda Bhoomi | ||
| Trinetrudu (100th Film) | Abhimanyu | ||
| Marana Mrudangam | Janrdhan/Johnny | Few fight sequences are taken from Jackie Chan's "Fearless Hyna 2" | |
| Khaidi No.786 | Gopi
Entitled As MEGASTAR By His Fans | ||
| Yamudiki Mogudu | Kali/Balu | ||
| Rudraveena | Suryanarayana Sharma | Winner: Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration | |
| Manchi Donga | Veerendra | ||
| 1989 | Lankeshwarudu | Shankar | Has features of Bruce Willi's "Diehard" |
| Rudranetra | Nethra | ||
| State Rowdy | Kaali Charan/Prudhvi | Few fight sequences are taken from American TV series "Street Hawk" | |
| Athaku Yamudu Ammayiki Mogudu | Kalyan | ||
| 1990 | Raja Vikramarka | Raja Vikramarka | |
| Prathibandh | Siddhanth | Hindi film Based on telugu hit "Ankusham" | |
| Kodama Simham | Bharath | Comedy scene with Sudhakar has taken from English film "My name is nobody" | |
| Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari | Raju | ||
| Kondaveeti Donga | Raja | ||
| 1991 | Rowdy Alludu | Janardhan(Johnny)/Kalyan | |
| Gang Leader | Rajaram | ||
| Stuartpuram Police Station | Rana Prathap | ||
| 1992 | Aapathbandhavudu | Madhava | Winner: Nandi Award for Best Actor |
| Aaj Ka Goonda Raj | Raja | Hindi | |
| Gharana Mogudu | Raju | ||
| 1993 | Mechanic Alludu | Ravi | |
| Muta Mesthri | Subhash Chandra Bose | Winner: Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) | |
| 1994 | The Gentleman | Vijay | Hindi; based on a Tamil Hit movie with same name |
| S.P.Parasuram | Parshuram | ||
| Mugguru Monagallu | Prudhvi/Vikram/Dattatreya | ||
| 1995 | Rikshavodu | Raju | Dual Role as father and son |
| Big Boss | Surendra | ||
| Alluda Majaka | Sitaramudu/Mr. Toyota | ||
| 1996 | Hitler | Madhava Rao | |
| 1997 | Master | Raj Kumar | Playback singer for the first time |
| 1998 | Choodalani Vundi | Ramakrishna | |
| Bavagaru Bagunnara | Raju | ||
| 1999 | Iddaru Mitrulu | Vijay | |
| Sneham Kosam | Simhadri/Chinnayya | Winner: Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) | |
| 2000 | Annayya | Rajaram | |
| Hands Up | Cameo | ||
| 2001 | Daddy | Raj Kumar | |
| Manjunatha | Manjunatha Swamy/Lord Siva | ||
| Mrugaraju | Raju | Also playback singer. Has features of Michael Douglas production "The Ghost and the Darkness" | |
| 2002 | Indra | Indra Sena Reddy | Nandi Award for Best Actor Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) |
| 2003 | Anji | Anji | |
| Tagore | Tagore | Santosham Best Actor Award | |
| 2004 | Shankar Dada MBBS | Shankar Prasad | Winner, Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) Winner, Santosham Best Actor Award Remake of Munnabhai MBBS |
| 2005 | Andarivadu | Govindarajulu/Siddharth | |
| Jai Chiranjeeva | Satyanarayana Murthy | ||
| 2006 | Stalin | Stalin | |
| 2007 | Shankardada Zindabad | Shankar Prasad | Remake of Lage Raho Munnabhai |