New Delhi: Seldom are actors called megastars. One definitely has to earn it just like Chiranjeevi who turns 60 today. The star who has made it larger than life will see a birthday bash befitting his grand stature. News has it that Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan will attend the party hosted by his son, actor Ram Charan. The occasion will also commemorate 35 years of Chiranjeevi in the industry and special dosas will be served to the guests.
So, what is it about this actor who last starred in a cameo in Magadheera in 2009 that his craze among fans hasn't diminished? Once referred to as ‘Bigger than Bachchan', what makes it impossible to turn your eyes away when Chiranjeevi comes on screen?
His first release Pranam Khareedu was in the year 1978 and apart from being known for his powerful acting, his break dancing skills mesmerised audiences. It would come as a shock that in the year 1992, Chiranjeevi charged 1.25 crores for a movie surpassing Big B (who charged 75 lakhs) and superstar Rajnikanth (who took 1 crore per movie).
Chiranjeevi is the undisputed king of Telugu cinema, an actor of both the classes and masses. Chiranjeevi is a living example of how with sheer effort, perseverance and confidence one can become the brightest star in the sky. Chiranjeevi breathed fresh air to Telugu cinema; his songs delighted the audience and his action sequences got them excited. Without any filmi Godfather and without any patronage from producers, Chiranjeevi became what he is today with his hard work.
Beyond the silver screen, Chiranjeevi is known for his mannerisms and amiable attitude. He has an ardent fan following not only for his movies but also for his off-screen activities. A member of the Indian National Congress, Chiranjeevi's political career has outshone most other politicians. The vast crowds that illuminates the streets of Chiranjeevi's house in Telangana during his public speeches have the capacity of making even renowned politicians jealous.
His philanthropic deeds make him a hero in real life much like his reel one. A devoted follower of Mother Teresa, Chiranjeevi's charitable trust runs a blood and eye bank which has provided succour to many.
The actor will once again appear on the big screen early next year with his 150th film ‘Auto Johnny' directed by Puri Jagannadh and we hope his acting skills cast a spell on us all over again.
We wish Padma Bhushan awardee Megastar Chiranjeevi a very happy birthday!
