The Gaddar Awards were presented to Telugu cinema in Telangana on March 19, 2026, on the auspicious occasion of Ugadi (Sri Parabhava Nama Samvatsaram). Megastar Chiranjeevi was one of the award recipients, who made a noteworthy appeal to the Andhra Pradesh Government about the Nandi Awards on the stage.
Chiranjeevi Receives NTR National Film Award
The awards were handed over by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka. Megastar Chiranjeevi was conferred with the prestigious NTR National Award, named after the legendary actor and former Chief Minister Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, who is regarded as a pillar of Telugu cinema.
Chiranjeevi received this honor from Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, marking a proud moment in his illustrious career.
Appeal to Chandrababu Naidu on Film Industry Support
During the event, Chiranjeevi made a direct appeal to the Andhra Pradesh government from the Gaddar Film Awards stage. He urged Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to take inspiration from the Gaddar Awards and similarly encourage the film industry.
Chiranjeevi remarked that Andhra Pradesh has been slightly behind neighboring states when it comes to supporting and honoring cinema professionals. He also mentioned that Chandrababu Naidu has always been closely connected to the film fraternity.
This isn’t the first time Chiranjeevi has engaged with the Andhra Pradesh government on cinema-related issues. Previously, he had discussions with CM Jagan about G.O 35 and met with officials over ticket pricing.
Will AP Government Revive Nandi Awards?
It now remains to be seen whether the Andhra Pradesh government will respond positively to Chiranjeevi’s comments and take steps toward reviving the Nandi Awards. The Nandi Awards have been a prestigious recognition for Telugu cinema professionals, and their revival could significantly boost the morale of the film industry in Andhra Pradesh.