Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography Kandula Durgesh paid rich tributes to legendary actor and former Chief Minister of the undivided Andhra Pradesh Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR).

Speaking at a programme organised by the X-Ray Literary and Cultural Service Organisation to present NTR Memorial Awards commemorating the NTR’s birth anniversary, in Vijayawada on Saturday night, the Minister said NTR was a cultural icon, who not only transformed Telugu cinema but also ushered in a new era of welfare governance in the State. “NTR was not merely a film star, he was a people’s leader who brought revolutionary schemes and global recognition to Telugu pride,” he said.

The Minister presented the award and felicitated veteran actor Rajendra Prasad for his outstanding contribution to the cinema over a remarkable 48-year career.

Avanigadda MLA Mandali Buddha Prasad, Vijayawada East MLA Gadde Ramamohan Rao and others were present.