Chiranjeevi first Indian actor to earn Rs 1 crore per film
Even as some actors make transient appearances in the film industry before moving on to other ventures, only a select few dedicate their lives to the craft and emerge as icons in the process.
Chiranjeevi, a rare talent entered the world of cinema without any industry backing and carved out an enduring legacy through sheer hard work, talent, and charisma.
Acknowledging for his acting prowess, screen presence, and exceptional dancing skills, Chiranjeevi’s film career began in 1978 and continues to thrive today, over four decades later. His dedication and determination have not only made him a household name in Telugu cinema but also earned him a Guinness World Record, an honour no other Indian actor has achieved.
Chiranjeevi hails from a humble background; his father was a police constable. With a passion for cinema, the young Varaprasad boarded a train to Madras to chase his dreams. Upon his mother’s suggestion, he adopted the screen name Chiranjeevi, which means ‘immortal’, a name that would go on to define his enduring presence in Indian cinema.
While debuted with the film Punadhirallu, his official debut came with Pranam Khareedu in 1978. Recognition followed soon after with Mana Voori Pandavulu, and by 1983, Chiranjeevi had achieved stardom with Khaidi. Films like Subhalekha and Vijetha cemented his place as a leading actor in the early years.
For nearly two decades, Chiranjeevi dominated the Telugu film industry.
Hits such as Swayam Krushi, Pasivadi Pranam, Rudra Veena, Yamudiki Mogudu, Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari, Gang Leader, Gharana Mogudu, Hitler, Mutha Mestri, Sneham Kosam, Choodalani Vundi, Annayya, Indra, Tagore, and Shankar Dada MBBS brought him widespread acclaim and box office success.
In the late 1980s, he delivered a staggering 14 hits in a single year, earning him the title ‘The New Money Machine’ of Indian cinema. Amitabh Bachchan had reached at the time and later became the second actor to receive such a fee, but only after his return to cinema.
A true icon of dance, Chiranjeevi revolutionised the choreography department in Telugu cinema. He introduced numerous dance choreographers to the industry and made dance an essential part of his films.
His incredible achievement of performing over 24,000 dance moves across 537 songs earned him a place in the Guinness World Records, which honoured him as the ‘Most Promising Actor in the Indian Cinema Industry’.
Today, the Megastar remains active in the industry. Following the completion of Vishwambhara, he is currently working on Mana Shankara Varaprasad, directed by Anil Ravipudi, which is set for a Sankranthi 2026 release. He is also slated to star in an action thriller directed by Srikanth Odela, known for Dasara.
From humble beginnings to global recognition, Chiranjeevi’s journey is a testament to unwavering passion and relentless pursuit of excellence. He is not just a star, he is a legacy in motion.
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News Edit KV Raman
