Bhagavanth Kesari star Nandamuri Balakrishna: Thanks to OTT, the entire country looks up to Telugu cinema today

Nandamuri Balakrishna hogs the limelight in all of his public appearances - he doesn’t mince words or care about being politically correct, speaking his heart out with a touch of humour. He was the chief guest of Rudrangi’s pre-release event in Hyderabad. The film, to release on July 7, is headlined by Jagapathi Babu, Vimala Raman, Mamta Mohandas and is directed by Ajay Samrat and produced by Rasamayi Balakishan.

Speaking at the event, Balakrishna shared, “The entire country is looking at Telugu cinema today. We’ve done great work in the past too but didn’t make the effort to promote it on a global platform. Thanks to the digital medium, OTT and the wide exposure, the industry has risen to great heights and it’s all because of the actors, directors, technicians who’ve put their heart and soul into cinema.”

“The love we’re receiving from various quarters is inspiring us to do better work. Films are of two types - ones that entertain and another lot that makes us think. The industry is striking a good balance between entertainment and thought-provoking cinema. We’re the best in the business today and I’m proud to say that and it wouldn’t have been possible without our yesteryear greats,” he added.

There are films that transport us to a different timeline and we become a character in the story and Rudrangi is one such effort, Balakrishna said. “Telangana has birthed several inspiring women, female rulers over the years and the film celebrates one such story. I congratulate director Ajay Samrat, my friend Jagapathi Babu, Vimala Raman and Mamta Mohandas for the film. I’m sure it’ll do well at the box office.”

Hailing Mamta Mohandas for her efforts to battle cancer and bouncing back to work, he stated, “Mamta is a cancer survivor and I’m also the chairman of a hospital that treats cancer patients. I know what it takes to overcome such a terminal disease and stand strong - she isn’t only an inspiration for women but also everyone for her courage.”