N. T. Rama Rao

Introduction

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., popularly known as Jr. NTR, stands as a compelling figure in the world of Indian cinema, garnering widespread interest and admiration. This biography delves into various aspects of Jr. NTR's life, encompassing details such as his height, age, relationships, family background, educational journey, personal preferences, career trajectory, and financial achievements. Renowned as one of the top stars in India, Jr. NTR's impact transcends national boundaries, earning him global recognition.

This biography aims to unravel the unique and significant facets of his life, shedding light on the factors that contribute to his special reputation in the entertainment industry and beyond. From his early years to his ascent in the world of cinema, Jr. NTR's journey is a tale of talent, dedication, and success that resonates not only with his fans but with audiences worldwide.

Wiki

Born on May 20, 1983, in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., popularly known as Jr. NTR, is a multifaceted talent in the Indian entertainment industry. Renowned for his contributions as a Telugu film actor, singer, and television host, Jr. NTR hails from a prominent family with a deep-rooted legacy in the world of cinema and politics. His birthplace, Hyderabad, is a city that would become witness to the emergence of one of the most influential figures in the Telugu film fraternity.

From his early years, Jr. NTR exhibited a flair for the arts, and over the years, he has carved a niche for himself with his versatile skills and captivating performances on the big screen. Beyond his acting prowess, he has also showcased his musical talents and charisma as a television host, making him a beloved and influential personality in the vibrant landscape of Indian entertainment.

Family and Education

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., affectionately known as Jr. NTR, is the son of the esteemed Telugu actor and politician Nandamuri Harikrishna and Shalini Bhaskar Rao. Born and raised in Hyderabad, Jr., NTR shared a close and cherished relationship with his grandfather, the legendary actor and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. T. Rama Rao. His parents bestowed upon him the name Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, echoing the rich legacy of the Nandamuri family.

Growing up, Jr. NTR frequently visited his grandfather, nurturing his passion for the world of entertainment from a young age. After completing his Intermediate education, he made the pivotal decision to embark on a full-time career in acting, a choice that would define his future in the Telugu film industry. Jr. NTR is part of a close-knit family that includes one sister, Nandamuri Suhasini, two brothers, Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, and a half-brother named Janaki Ram.

His personal life is marked by his marriage to Lakshmi Pranathi, with whom he shares the joy of parenthood, blessed with a son named Nandamuri Abhay Ram. Beyond his immediate family, Jr. NTR is connected to the illustrious Nandamuri lineage, counting among his relatives notable figures in the industry such as his cousin actresses Taraka Ratna, Nara Rohit, and Nara Lokesh. Additionally, he is the nephew of actor and politician Nandamuri Balakrishna and the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, underscoring the deep-rooted influence of the Nandamuri family in the realms of Telugu cinema and politics.

N.T. Rama Rao's Wife

N.T. Rama Rao and Lakshmi Pranathi, the celebrated couple of Tollywood, have earned admiration for their steadfast support for each other. Despite Jr. NTR's prominence as a popular actor, Lakshmi Pranathi consistently stands by him off-screen, adding a profound dimension to their relationship. Their union, initially arranged by their parents, has evolved into a formidable partnership marked by mutual respect and understanding. The couple exchanged vows on May 11, 2011, in a grand ceremony in Hyderabad, surrounded by close friends and relatives.

While Jr. NTR maintains a relatively private stance on his personal life, he has openly acknowledged the significant influence Lakshmi has had on him. In interviews, he has expressed how Lakshmi transformed him and served as the anchor of their home. Their relationship is characterized by simplicity, and they often enjoy watching movies together, a shared activity that reflects their down-to-earth connection. Jr. NTR, known for his skill on-screen, exhibits a charming and caring side in his relationship with Lakshmi. Whether preparing a delicious lunch for her during stressful times or prioritizing family time, their bond has matured over the years, embodying a blend of love, understanding, and shared moments that contribute to the enduring strength of their marriage.

Favorite Things

Jr. NTR, the acclaimed Telugu film actor, has a diverse range of preferences that reflect his personality and interests:

1. Food: His culinary tastes include a fondness for Biryani and Chicken 65, showcasing a penchant for flavorful and rich dishes.
2. Actresses: Among the many talented actresses, Savitri stands out as one of Jr. NTR's favorites, possibly indicating admiration for classic performances in the world of cinema.
3. Hobbies: Jr. NTR has a variety of hobbies that add vibrancy to his life. These include cooking, a skill that aligns with his love for delicious food. Additionally, he enjoys dancing, singing, and reading, showcasing a well-rounded set of interests beyond acting.
4. Color: His preferred colors are blue and black, indicating sophistication and elegance in his style.
5. Holiday Destinations: When it comes to holiday destinations, Jr. NTR has a penchant for the romantic allure of Paris. This choice suggests an appreciation for the cultural and aesthetic richness of this iconic city.
6. Likes: In terms of sports, Jr. NTR has an affinity for both badminton and cricket, demonstrating an appreciation for physical activity and possibly reflecting his competitive spirit and love for the game.

Career

N.T. Rama Rao embarked on his acting journey at the tender age of seven, making his debut as a child actor in the 1991 film "Brahmarshi Vishwamitra." In a remarkable twist of fate, he portrayed the character of Bharata in a play scripted and directed by his legendary grandfather, N.T. Rama Rao. The young actor's talent shone through, and he later took on the titular role of Rama in the acclaimed mythological film "Ramayanam" (1997), which garnered the National Film Award for Best Children's Film. Despite a significant hiatus, Rama Rao Jr.'s return to the screen was met with praise from critics, who lauded his performance in the movie. This early exposure and recognition laid the foundation for his subsequent success in the Telugu film industry.

Student No. 1 (2001)

Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, the Telugu-language film is a coming-of-age romance-action movie with writing, direction, and production helmed by K. Raghavendra Rao. The film, made on a budget of 1.85 crores (US$392,000), turned into a significant success for the distributor, earning 12 crores. The storyline was later adapted in 2003 as "Helare" in Odia and Tamil with the same name in 2008. The plot follows Aditya (N. T. Rama Rao Jr.) as he enrolls in a legal school in Vizag, known for its rowdy students led by Rajiv Kanakala.

The first half unfolds Aditya's peculiar past, portraying him as a unique young man reforming disruptive students. However, during the intermission, it's revealed that Aditya is a murder suspect serving a life sentence attending college with special consent. Residing in Hyderabad with his parents, Aditya completes his intermediate studies, but a conflict arises when his father insists on a law career while he aspires to study engineering. A tragic incident leads to Aditya disowning himself from his father, turning the movie's focus on his journey to win back affection through a legal degree. The film skillfully intertwines action, romance, and a compelling storyline, showcasing Jr. NTR's versatility as an actor.

Subbu (2001)

The Telugu love drama film "Subbu" hit screens in 2001, directed by Rudraraju Suresh Varma and co-produced by R. Srinivas and P.M. Hari Kumar. The cast includes N. T. Rama Rao Jr., reprising his role from "Student No. 1," and Sonali Joshi. Released as "Tiger: One Man Army" in Hindi, the film revolves around Bala Subramanyam, known as Subbu (played by Jr. NTR), a college student admired for his calm demeanor. The plot takes a romantic turn when Neeraja (Sonali Joshi) anonymously contributes money for 25 seats in Subbu's college. Intrigued, Subbu seeks to uncover the identity of the mysterious donor. The narrative unfolds as Subbu falls in love with Neeraja, discovering the deeper reasons behind her philanthropy. "Subbu" skillfully weaves a love story around the characters, exploring themes of generosity, love, and the development of a composed mindset, with Jr. NTR delivering a compelling performance.

Simhadri (2003)

The action-packed film "Simhadri," released in 2003, was directed by S. S. Rajamouli and scripted by V. Vijayendra Prasad. The main cast includes N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Bhumika Chawla, and Ankitha, with supporting roles played by Mukesh Rishi, Nassar, and Rahul Dev. M. M. Keeravani composed the film's score, while cinematography and editing were expertly handled by Ravindra Babu and Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao, respectively.

Debuting on July 9, 2003, the movie achieved notable financial success, grossing 26 crore rupees ($5.6 million) from its 8.5 crore rupee ($1.8 million) budget. The film's impact extended beyond Telugu cinema, with reproductions in Tamil as "Gajendra" (2004), Kannada as "Kanteerava" (2012), and Bangladeshi Bengali as "Durdorsho" (2005). M. M. Keeravani's soundtrack, featuring songs creatively chosen by Rajamouli, added to the movie's appeal. Notably, the film's theatrical run exceeded 100 days, solidifying "Simhadri" as a remarkable milestone in Jr. NTR's career and the Telugu film industry.

Ashok (2006)

In the 2006 Telugu masala movie "Ashok," directed by Surender Reddy and produced by Maharishi Cinema, N.T. Rama Rao, Sameera Reddy, Prakash Raj, and Sonu Sood play pivotal roles. Released on July 14, 2006, in Andhra Pradesh, the film received moderate success at the box office. The storyline revolves around Ashok, a mechanic expelled from his home due to impulsive decisions leading to his grandmother's death. Despite Ashok's attempts to mend relations, his father remains angry. The plot takes a turn when Ashok meets Anjali, a skilled but insecure dancer, leading to a blossoming romance. Anjali becomes entangled with a criminal organization led by K.K., and Ashok finds himself fighting against K.K.'s crew to protect her. The narrative unfolds with Ashok seeking revenge for the death of his friend Rajiv, ultimately leading to a dramatic confrontation between Ashok and K.K. The climax, set during Ashok's sister's wedding, sees a twist of fate resulting in K.K.'s demise. With the resolution of conflicts, Ashok's family reconciles, marking the conclusion of the film. The Bengali Bangladeshi remake, "Babar Kosom" (2007), attests to the story's cross-cultural appeal.

Adhurs (2010)

The narrative unfolds with the compelling tale of two identical twin brothers separated at birth and each raised in vastly different environments. Narasimha, brought up by a single mother, takes on the role of an undercover spy for top cop Nayak with aspirations of becoming a police officer. In contrast, his twin, Chari, is raised by a traditional Brahmin priest family. The intricate plot weaves together the lives of these two brothers as they navigate their distinct worlds. Chandrakala, aka Chandu, a relative of Chari, becomes entangled in a romantic relationship with her priest guru, Bhattacharya.

Meanwhile, Nayak's daughter, Nandini, is romantically involved with Narasimha. The story takes a dramatic turn when the family of a renowned army scientist, the father of Narasimha and Chari, becomes the target of nefarious individuals Dhanraj and Baba. Seeking to exploit Nayak's betrayal, they leverage Narasimha to create a target-killing gadget. As the intricate plot unfolds, Narasimha escapes, and a complex series of events transpire involving Chari pretending to be Narasimha. The tale is rich in twists and turns, blending elements of romance, family dynamics, and undercover operations, creating a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged till the story's conclusion.

Oosaravelli (2011)

In 2011, Surender Reddy directed the Telugu-language action-thriller "Oosaravelli," featuring Prakash Raj, N. T. Rama Rao Jr., and Tamannaah in pivotal roles. The film's soundtrack and score were composed by Devi Sri Prasad. Opening in 1,800 theaters, the movie received mixed but generally positive reviews for its cast performances, action sequences, set pieces, and technical aspects. Notably, it set a new record for the highest opening day gross in Tollywood, earning 16.3 crore (US$2.0 million). Its success extended into 2012, with a theatrical run of 50 days, marking it as one of the most successful films of the year.

The Bengali version, "Rocky" (2013), further attested to the film's cross-cultural appeal. "Oosaravelli" premiered on October 6, 2011, across the globe, with 200 theaters, including 76 in Hyderabad, screening it in the Nizam region of Andhra Pradesh. Gemini T.V. acquired the satellite rights for 5.50 crore, and the DVD, released by Bhavani Videos on January 14, 2012, in NTSC video format with Dolby Digital 5.1 audio, gained popularity at a price of $7.99. Additionally, the Blu-ray version was made available for $14.99 on February 1, 2012, in NTSC video format, featuring DTS HD Master 5.1 surround sound.

Baadshah (2013)

In 2013, Sreenu Vaitla directed the action comedy film "Baadshah," an Indian Telugu production produced by Bandla Ganesh under Parameswara Art Productions. The film stars N. T. Rama Rao Jr. alongside Kelly Dorji, Navdeep, Kajal Aggarwal, and Brahmanandam. Sai Thaman, collaborating with Sreenu Vaitla for the second time, composed the music while K. V. Guhan handled the cinematography. After its international premiere at the 2014 Osaka Asian Film Festival in Japan, the movie was released on April 5. With a global release on 1550 screens and 1200 prints, "Baadshah" received positive reviews and became a box office success. Brahmanandam, for his role in the film, earned the SIIMA Award for Best Comedian (Telugu). The movie marked a significant turning point for N. T. Rama Rao Jr., garnering a cult status and becoming the biggest opening grosser of his career. It also marked Sreenu Vaitla's seventh consecutive blockbuster. Within its first week, the film grossed 33 million worldwide, and in three weeks, it reached $427.9 million globally. The total net earnings of the movie stood at 920 million. With a worldwide gross of 48.50 crores, "Baadshah" emerged as one of NTR's most financially successful movies.

Temper (2015)

The 2015 action film "Temper," directed by Puri Jagannadh and produced by Bandla Ganesh under Parameswara Art Productions, stars N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Kajal Aggarwal, and Prakash Raj in pivotal roles. The story revolves around corrupt police officer Daya, whose life takes an unexpected turn after a brawl leads him to a murder case. The Hindi version, titled "Simbaa," features Ranveer Singh in the lead and was directed by Rohit Shetty. With a budget of 35 crores (350 million), the film's soundtrack was composed by Anup Rubens, and Mani Sharma handled the background music.

At the same time, Shyam K. Naidu and S. R. Sekhar managed the cinematography and editing, respectively. Filming commenced on August 2, 2014, in Hyderabad, progressing to locations in and around Hyderabad and Goa. Despite interruptions due to a strike, the shoot concluded on January 31, 2015. Upon its release on February 13, 2015, "Temper" received positive reviews for the performances of the main characters, though some critics noted predictable moments. With a lifetime gross of 74.3 crores (743 million) and a share of 43.1 crores (431 million), the film achieved financial success. It was later adapted in Tamil as "Ayogya" (2019) and in Hindi as "Simmba" (2018) with a different climax.

Nannaku Prematho (2016)

In this family drama, Abhiram, the youngest son of industrialist Subrahmanyam based in London, makes a bold decision to quit his job and establish K.M.C. Pipes and Canals. His first project in Spain became a success. However, Abhiram's life takes an unexpected turn when he learns that his father has pancreatic cancer with just a month or more to live. Subrahmanyam reveals a shocking past where he was once known as Ramesh Chandra Prasad, the wealthiest businessman in London, who lost everything to the cunning Krishna Murthy Kautilya.

After years of struggle, he regained wealth by changing his name to Subrahmanyam. Seeking revenge, Subrahmanyam tasks his three sons with bringing down Krishna Murthy. Abhiram, determined to handle the situation personally, employs three seemingly devoted individuals to carry out the mission. The key to reaching Krishna Murthy lies in Divyanka, also known as Divya, his daughter. Abhiram targets Divya, saving her from captivity and using their family's entire savings to buy her a $25 crore (US$3.1 million) artwork. In the process, Divya starts to believe in Abhiram's genuine sentiments, setting the stage for a complex tale of revenge, family dynamics, and unforeseen twists.

RRR

Directed by S. S. Rajamouli and co-written with V. Vijayendra Prasad, the epic action drama "RRR" is a Telugu language film produced by DVV Entertainment's D. V. V. Danayya. The star-studded cast includes N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Shriya Saran, Samuthirakani, Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody, and Olivia Morris. The film delves into the lives of two real-life Indian revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju (played by Charan) and Komaram Bheem (played by Rama Rao), exploring their relationship and struggle against British rule during the 1920s. With a staggering budget of 550 crore rupees ($72 million), "RRR" is the most expensive Indian movie ever made. Originally scheduled for release on July 30, 2020, the film faced multiple delays due to the pandemic and production challenges before finally hitting theaters on March 25, 2022.

"RRR" received critical acclaim for Rajamouli's direction, the cast's performances, the soundtrack, action scenes, cinematography, VFX, and writing. It set a new record for the highest opening-day collection by an Indian movie, earning 240 crores (US$30 million) worldwide on its first day. Domestically, it surpassed Rajamouli's previous blockbuster, "Baahubali 2," in box office revenue in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, collecting over 415 crores (US$52 million). Globally, "RRR" became the third-highest-grossing Indian film and the second-highest-grossing Telugu film. Its worldwide earnings ranged between 1,000 and 1,200 crores (US$130 and 175.47 million). The film garnered international recognition, receiving nominations and winning the Best International Film honor at the 47th Saturn Awards. Within a week of its release, "RRR" became the highest-grossing foreign film in Japan.

Net worth

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., or NTR, is a prominent figure with a net worth of $150 million or Rs. 1114 crores. His primary source of income is his career as a Telugu movie actor and singer in India. NTR is revered as a megastar in the South Indian film industry, ranking among the top five lead actors in the region. His substantial earnings stem from both movie projects and brand endorsements, with a significant portion coming from profit shares in his films. Beyond acting, Jr. NTR is diversifying by establishing his own production house, potentially augmenting his current net worth.

Despite his immense success, he stands out for his philanthropy, volunteering, and social work, consistently holding the position of one of the highest taxpayers in the country. Residing in the prestigious Jubilee Hills neighborhood in Hyderabad, he owns real estate valued at approximately Rs. 28 crores and recently acquired a residence in Bangalore. With a Rolls Royce and Range Rover in his collection, each valued between Rs. 1 and Rs. 3 crores, Jr. NTR enjoys a lavish lifestyle. Notably, his son, Ram Charan Tej, gifted him a Rolls Royce. As we extend our best wishes, we hope Jr. NTR continues to achieve success, maintain excellent health, and experience abundant love in the coming years, consistently reaching new milestones and expanding his wealth.

Awards

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr. has accumulated a plethora of prestigious awards throughout his illustrious career in the Telugu film industry, showcasing his versatility and excellence as an actor and performer. Here's a breakdown of his remarkable achievements

CineMAA Awards

1. Best Actor - Male for "Temper" in 2016 - Winner
2. Best Actor - Male for "Yamadonga" in 2008 - Winner
3. Best Actor - Male for "Simhadri" in 2004 - Winner
4. Best Actor: Critics for "Aadi" in 2003 - Winner

Filmfare Awards South

1. Best Actor for "Aravindha Sametha Veera Raghava" in 2019 - Nominee
2. Best Actor for "Jai Lava Kusa" in 2018 - Nominee
3. Best Actor for "Nannaku Prematho" in 2017 - Winner
4. Best Male Playback Singer for "Nannaku Prematho" in 2017 - Nominee
5. Best Actor for "Temper" in 2016 - Nominee
6. Best Actor for "Yamadonga" in 2008 - Winner

IIFA Utsavam

1. Best Actor for "Janatha Garage" in 2017 - Winner
2. Best Actor in a Leading Role for "Temper" in 2016 - Nominee

Nandi Awards

1. Best Actor for "Nannaku Prematho" and "Janatha Garage" in 2017 - Winner
2. Special Jury Award for "Aadi" in 2003 - Winner

South Indian International Movie Awards

1. Best Actor in a Leading Role for "Aravindha Sametha Veera Raghava" in 2019 - Nominee
2. Best Actor in a Leading Role for "Jai Lava Kusa" in 2018 - Nominee
3. Best Actor in a Leading Role for "Janatha Garage" in 2017 - Winner
4. Best Playback Singer - Male for "Chakravyuha" in 2017 - Nominee

These accolades serve as a testament to Jr. NTR's exceptional talent and his significant contributions to the world of cinema.

Controversy

Alia Bhatt and Shraddha Kapoor Turned Down Jr. NTR's NTR 30

In the highly anticipated movie RRR, Jr. NTR and Alia Bhatt initially shared the screen, but rumors circulated that Alia eventually turned down the project for undisclosed reasons. Subsequently, the producers reportedly approached Shraddha Kapoor, who also declined to be part of the film. To enhance the film's appeal in the Hindi-speaking region, the producers of NTR 30 explored the possibility of casting a Bollywood actress in the female lead role. Despite attempts to secure Alia and Shraddha, the filmmakers faced setbacks. Deepika Padukone, who is currently making waves at the 75th Cannes Film Festival, declined the opportunity, citing various reasons.

Recent reports suggest that Rashmika Mandanna is in talks for the project, although the creators have released no official details. The announcement of the actress set to play the female protagonist in NTR 30 is anticipated soon. Directed by Koratala Siva, with Anirudh Ravichander composing the music, filming for NTR 30 is expected to commence in July, and further promotional material is expected to be unveiled in the coming days.

Junior NTR was Once Embroiled in a Scandal After Marrying a Minor

The marriage between Junior NTR and Lakshmi Pranathi faced scrutiny over a decade ago, surrounded by rumors suggesting that she was a minor at the time. The controversy unfolded when lawyer Shanti Prasad brought the matter to the Machilipatnam Legal Services Authority, asserting that Narne Lakshmi Pranathi was underage during her courtship with Junior NTR, who is a relative of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N. Chandrababu Naidu. Allegedly, upon discovering that the girl was only 17, Prasad initiated legal proceedings, highlighting that the minimum legal age for marriage is 18.

The lawsuit urged that the marriage be postponed until Lakshmi Pranathi reached the legal age. Importantly, the intention was not to annul the marriage but to ensure compliance with the law. Naidu, a former Chief Minister, and Junior NTR's father, Nandamuri Harikrishna, who is an M.P., were encouraged to set an example by respecting legal requirements. Despite the legal challenges, sources from the bride's family clarified that the wedding would proceed only after she turned 18, which occurred on March 26. Eventually, on May 5, 2011, the actor and the actress tied the knot, and they are now a happily married couple with two sons.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., widely known as Jr. NTR, emerged as a multifaceted and influential figure in the Indian entertainment industry. From his early days shaped by a family legacy in cinema and politics, Jr. NTR has risen to become a top star with a global impact. His journey, marked by talent, dedication, and success, reflects not only in his diverse career as a Telugu film actor, singer, and television host but also in his personal life.

Rooted in a close-knit family with deep connections to the illustrious Nandamuri lineage, Jr. NTR's life encompasses family bonds, relationships, and a flourishing marriage with Lakshmi Pranathi. His preferences, hobbies, and favorite things add layers to his personality, showcasing a well-rounded individual beyond the screen.

His journey is not only a testament to his acting prowess but also a reflection of his influence on the global cinematic stage. With a net worth of $150 million, philanthropic endeavors, and a lavish lifestyle, Jr. NTR stands as a successful and socially responsible personality. His numerous awards and accolades underscore his exceptional talent and contributions to the world of cinema.