Nandamuri Balakrishna, a veteran Telugu actor and a member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, is often associated with controversies due to his habit of speaking impulsively or using inappropriate words. Now, Chiranjeevi fires at Balakrishna for speaking wrongly about him.
During the Andhra Pradesh Assembly session on September 25, MLA Kamineni Srinivas made remarks that prompted a response from MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, who mentioned Megastar Chiranjeevi’s name in a disrespectful manner.
Balakrishna’s Satires on Chiranjeevi
While addressing the Assembly, Balakrishna sarcastically remarked, quoting Kamineni Srinivas, that Chiranjeevi had not invited him to meet the then Chief Minister YS Jagan to discuss ticket prices.
He said it’s a lie. “No one asked strongly there.” He also added, “Otherwise, who will say no to a cinematography minister,” implying that Chiranjeevi acted under Pressure.
Since his name was brought, Chiranjeevi gave a public press note and fired at Balakrishna.
Chiranjeevi releases an official press note.
“During the tenure of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, several members of the Telugu film industry, such as producers, directors, and representatives from the Film Chamber approached me. They were concerned about rising production costs and requested my help in initiating discussions with the state government to increase movie ticket prices.
Among those who met me were Mr. Rajamouli, Mr. Koratala Siva, Mr. Trivikram Srinivas, Mr. Mahesh Babu, Mr. N.T. Rama Rao Jr., Mr. DVV Danayya, representatives from Mythri Movie Makers, and a few other prominent figures. Based on their request, I contacted the then Cinematography Minister, Mr. Perni Nani, over the phone. He assured me that he would speak to the Chief Minister about the issue.
Later, Mr. Perni Nani called me and said the Chief Minister wanted to meet me personally and invited me for lunch. I visited the CM’s residence, where I was warmly welcomed. During lunch, I explained the challenges faced by the film industry and expressed the need for better communication between the government and filmmakers. I told the CM that if he gave us time, we would all come together to meet him.
A few days later, Mr. Perni Nani informed me that due to the ongoing second wave of COVID-19, only five people should attend the meeting. I said we would be around ten, and he agreed. A date was fixed.
I tried to contact Mr. Balakrishna to invite him, but he was unavailable. I requested Mr. Gemini Kiran to meet him personally, but even after three attempts, he couldn’t reach Mr. Balakrishna. Eventually, I arranged a flight and visited the Chief Minister along with Mr. R. Narayana Murthy and a few others.
During the meeting, I explained the problems faced by the film industry and requested government support. Everyone present witnessed this discussion. Because of my initiative, the government agreed to increase movie ticket prices, which helped the industry to some extent. This decision benefited films like Veera Simha Reddy and Waltair Veerayya, allowing higher ticket rates and better returns for producers, distributors, and exhibitors.
Whether I speak to the Chief Minister or a common citizen, I always maintain respect and humility. Since I am currently not in India, I am issuing this press statement to clarify the facts.”
