Happy B’Day Chiranjeevi: 6 unknown facts about South Indian Megastar

South Indian superstar Chiranjeevi who also has a few Bollywood hits to his credit celebrates his 68th birthday today. The megastar who continues to belt out good movies even after being in the industry for so many decades is an inspiration for those who want to continue actively their careers even during the late 70s.

On his birthday today know some unknown facts about the Bhola Shankar actor.

One of the highest-paid actors

During the 80s and early 90s, Amitabh Bachchan was the highest-paid actor in India. He used to charge Rs 1 crore for a movie. But Chiranjeevi surpassed him when he was offered 1.25 crore to star in Aapad Bandhavudu. During the early 90s, Chiranjeevi was a big superstar and one of the highest-paid stars in the country.

Stage name is derived from a revered deity

His mother had suggested that the actor should take Chiranjeevi meaning immortal as his stage name as they are Hindu and revere Anjaneya or Lord Hanuman. Chiranjeevi is another name for Lord Hanuman since he is considered immortal.

Missed chance to debut in Hollywood

The Southern superstar had signed a Hollywood movie titled, “The Return of the Thief of Baghdad” in 1999. The shooting for the same had already started but due to some reason, it was stopped which was a big disappointment for Chiranjeevi fans.

Awards and accolades

In his long career, the superstar has been awarded the Andhra Pradesh State Nandi Awards 3 times and with South Filmfare Awards nine times. He has also received the National Level Padma Bhushan Award and an Honorary Doctorate from Andhra University for his outstanding contributions to the Indian film industry.

Successful stint in politics

The megastar started a political party Praja Rajyam through which he also got elected from Tirupati for the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly in the general elections of 2009. Later on, he merged his party with the Indian National Congress and was given the position of Minister of Tourism. He also served as a member of Rajya Sabha for some time.

The first movie to cross 10 crore

The first Tollywood movie that crossed 10 crore featured Chiranjeevi and Nagma in the lead. Titled Gharana Mogudu, the movie was helmed by K Raghavendra and was a very big Tollywood blockbuster in 1992 and won several awards.