Nandamuri Balakrishna, the renowned Telugu actor and politician, has expressed deep gratitude for receiving the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award. Balakrishna was honored for his remarkable contributions to Telugu cinema, spanning over five decades, and his philanthropic efforts through the Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital, which has been a beacon of hope for cancer patients for the past 15 years.

In a heartwarming gesture, Union Cabinet Minister and BJP leader G. Kishan Reddy visited Balakrishna’s residence in Hyderabad to personally congratulate him on the award. During their meeting, Kishan Reddy commended the actor-politician’s relentless commitment to public service and social welfare, thanking the central government for recognizing his efforts in both cinema and social causes.

A reflective Balakrishna also took the opportunity to honor the memory of his father, the legendary actor and former Chief Minister Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR), describing him as a guiding light throughout his life. In an earnest appeal, Balakrishna requested Kishan Reddy to recommend NTR for the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. He emphasized that NTR’s immense contributions to the Telugu community and the nation make him highly deserving of the honor.

Balakrishna’s appeal resonates with the growing sentiment among the Telugu fraternity to recognize NTR’s legacy with the Bharat Ratna. Prominent leaders like Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan have also voiced support for the cause, raising the issue with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his recent visit to Andhra Pradesh.