Celebrating his 65th birthday with grandeur and emotion, actor-politician Nandamuri Balakrishna—Hindupur MLA and Chairman of the Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital—declared, “My life is an open book. There are no secrets. Every step I take is in the public eye.”
The celebrations, held at Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital in Banjara Hills and the nearby Kumurambheem Bhavan, drew a massive crowd of fans, hospital staff, and cancer-affected children. The day began with Balakrishna offering floral tributes to the statues of his legendary father N.T. Rama Rao (NTR) and mother Basavatarakam, evoking nostalgia and reverence. “NTR is not just my father; he is my god,” Balakrishna said, his voice filled with sentiment.
Amid cheers and chants from supporters, a 65-kg cake was ceremonially cut—symbolizing each year of the actor’s impactful journey. Balakrishna spoke candidly, reflecting on his five-decade-long cinematic career, his transition into politics, and the values that drive him.
“I entered the film industry purely out of passion for acting, and now I’m enjoying what feels like a second innings,” he remarked. In a tongue-in-cheek comment on public perception, he said, “People say I’m not arrogant. That’s true. But maybe those around me are not proud of me either,” drawing laughter from the audience. Balakrishna, who was recently honored with the Padma Bhushan, humbly noted, “Awards are not my adornments—I am an adornment for awards. Even though I received this recognition for acting, I believe it truly acknowledges my service to society.”
The event also featured the screening of the trailer for “Akhanda 2”, much to the excitement of fans who see the sequel as another powerhouse performance in the making. Later, during a separate event hosted by the All India NBK Fans Association, Balakrishna was felicitated with flower showers, garlands, and thunderous applause. The day’s celebrations not only honored Balakrishna’s cinematic legacy but also highlighted his commitment to healthcare and public service, reinforcing his dual identity as a beloved actor and a people’s representative.
