Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi has made an indelible mark in the industry. He is one of the few actors who has managed to stay relevant across generations.
What set him apart is his powerful screen-presence, charismatic dance moves and raw energy. He started his acting career with the 1978 movie Pranam Khareedu. In 1979, he debuted as a lead actor with Punadhirallu, which got him the Nandi Award for Best Actor and Best Feature Film.
Chiranjeevi’s success didn’t happen overnight. His constant hard work and determination in Telugu industry made him a household name across India. In late 80s and early 90s, the actor led a streak of 14 consecutive hits in a year, acquiring him the title of “The New Money Machine” of Indian cinema.
First Indian actor to charge Rs 1 crore
Though he also appeared in a few Hindi films, but it was his towering presence in South that rose him to superstardom. As mentioned in The Week, since Amitabh Bachchan was on a sabbatical in the early 90s, Chiranjeevi came in and took over the status of India’s most bankable star.
Chiranjeevi’s move to command Rs 1 crore per film inspired other legends like Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth to demand the same. Even Amitabh Bachchan caught up, becoming the first Hindi actor to reach that pay scale after his return to films. By the late 90s, the Bollywood Khans- Shah Rukh, Aamir and Salman- too began commanding Rs 2-3 crore per movie. But it was Chiranjeevi who laid the foundation.
A Guinness Record holder
In 2024, The Guinness World Records recognised Chiranjeevi as the Most prolific star in the Indian film industry. The actor set a record for his dance performances with over 537 songs and 24,000 dance moves in 46 years. No other star in and outside Indian has achieved this feat.
Having starred in over 150 films, Chiranjeevi continues to remain a revered icon. As an actor, politician and philanthropist, he continues to inspire generations and shape Indian entertainment industry.