From Dairymen to Hollywood Stars: The Unlikely Rise of a Family Man
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao: The Multifaceted Actor-Politician Who Defied Convention
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, popularly known as NTR, was a South Indian film sensation who defied convention in both his personal and professional life. He married his maternal uncle’s daughter at the age of 20, had eight children, and later remarried at 70 to Telugu writer Lakshmi Parvati. This remarkable story is a testament to NTR’s unconventional approach to life, which also saw him transition from a milk seller to a successful politician, leaving an indelible mark on the Telugu Desam Party.
Born on May 28, 1923, in Andhra Pradesh, NTR’s early life was marked by a sense of responsibility. He worked as a milk seller in hotels to support his family while pursuing his education. However, his passion for acting led him to quit his government job within three weeks of starting. NTR’s big break came when he played a woman’s role in a play at acting school, which influenced his decision to become an actor. He went on to work in over 300 films, playing iconic roles such as Ram and Lord Krishna, and even taking on the latter’s character 17 times.
NTR’s impact on Telugu cinema was significant, with a career spanning several decades. He remained active in films until his last appearance in Srinatha Kavi Sarvabhoumudu in 1993. In addition to his acting prowess, NTR was also a successful politician, forming the Telugu Desam Party in 1982. He went on to become the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh thrice between 1983 and 1994, challenging the Congress stronghold in the state.
NTR’s personal life was marked by two marriages and 12 children. His first marriage to Basava Tarakam, who was his maternal uncle’s daughter, lasted 43 years until her passing. He then married Lakshmi Parvati at the age of 70, resulting in six more children. Notably, NTR’s son-in-law Nara Chandrababu Naidu later took over the Telugu Desam Party and became the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
As NTR’s grandson, Junior NTR, carries on his legacy in the film industry, it is clear that NTR’s impact on South Indian cinema and politics will be felt for generations to come. His remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions and defying convention, even in the face of adversity.
Original Source: https://www.india.com/entertainment/this-actor-married-in-his-family-became-father-of-12-kids-used-to-sell-milk-for-a-living-then-became-a-chief-minister-he-is-nandamuri-taraka-rama-rao-7757982/
Category : Entertainment,Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao,NTR
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Publish Date: 2025-04-15 22:26:00