As part of the centenary celebrations of legendary actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), Nagarjuna has announced that the prestigious Akkineni Award for 2024 will be bestowed upon Megastar Chiranjeevi. The announcement was made during a press conference held in honor of ANR's 100th birth anniversary. This award is particularly significant as it marks ANR’s centenary year, making it a special recognition in Telugu cinema.

The ANR National Award is presented biennially to honor individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Indian cinema across various languages. While this award has always held great prestige, this year's ceremony carries extra weight due to the historic milestone of ANR's centenary.

Chiranjeevi Honored in ANR's Legacy

Chiranjeevi, recipient of the Padma Vibhushan and known as one of Telugu cinema's greatest icons, was deeply moved when he was informed of the award. Nagarjuna shared at the press meet that Chiranjeevi got emotional, embraced him, and expressed heartfelt gratitude. The award is a testament to Chiranjeevi's immense contributions to the film industry, both as an actor and a producer. Over the years, he has elevated Telugu cinema to new heights while captivating audiences with his performances.

The award ceremony will take place on October 28, 2024, at a grand event hosted at a prominent hotel in Hyderabad. The occasion will be graced by none other than Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, who will present the ANR Award to Chiranjeevi. The event is expected to be a star-studded affair, with members of the Akkineni family and numerous film industry celebrities in attendance.

The ANR and Konidela Families

Beyond professional respect, the Akkineni and Konidela families share a strong bond of mutual admiration. Chiranjeevi and Nagarjuna have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, which has now extended to the next generation, with Ram Charan and Akhil Akkineni being close friends. The Akkineni Award being presented to Chiranjeevi in ANR’s centenary year symbolizes this enduring relationship, and the event will undoubtedly be a celebration of the unity between two of Telugu cinema’s most influential families.

This recognition adds another illustrious feather to Chiranjeevi's already decorated cap and serves as a fitting tribute to his legendary career in the same year as the celebration of ANR's 100th Jayanthi.