Junior NTR, one of the biggest names in Indian cinema, especially in the South Indian film industry, has built an illustrious career spanning decades. With a massive fan base in India and internationally, his acting skills, powerful screen presence, and commitment to his craft have earned him a place among the top actors. But the road to stardom wasn’t easy, and a few key films, especially those directed by SS Rajamouli, played a pivotal role in shaping his career.
Early Struggles and the Game-Changing ‘Student No. 1’
Junior NTR made his debut as a lead actor in 2001 with the film Ninnu Choodalani. However, the film did not perform well at the box office, leaving a question mark on his future as an actor. But later that year, his fate took a turn when he collaborated with SS Rajamouli, who was also making his directorial debut with Student No. 1. This film was a major success and gave NTR his first taste of fame. The young actor’s talent was noticed, and Student No. 1 became his stepping stone to success.
A Rough Patch Followed by a Blockbuster: ‘Simhadri’
Though Student No. 1 gave him recognition, the following years were a bit rocky for Junior NTR. Films like Subbu and Allari Ramudu didn’t do well, and Naga was also a disappointment. However, in 2003, NTR reunited with Rajamouli for the film Simhadri. This collaboration was a game-changer as Simhadri turned out to be the biggest hit of that year. The film’s massive success cemented NTR’s position as a leading actor in Tollywood. Audiences loved his performance, and he became known for his powerful screen presence.
Building a Legacy with ‘Yamadonga’ and His First Filmfare Award
While Simhadri was a major success, NTR experienced a period where some of his films underperformed. However, in 2007, he once again teamed up with Rajamouli for Yamadonga, a social fantasy film. Junior NTR worked intensely for this film, undergoing a physical transformation by shedding several kilos. Yamadonga became another blockbuster hit and was celebrated for its unique storyline and NTR’s stellar performance. This film not only brought him back into the spotlight but also earned him his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor in Telugu. Yamadonga was also dubbed in Hindi as Parlok, further expanding NTR’s fanbase.
The Comeback Era: Hits Like ‘Brindavanam’ and ‘Janata Garage’
By 2010, Junior NTR’s career had started gaining momentum once again with successful films like Adhurs and Brindavanam, both of which did well at the box office. These films showcased his versatility as an actor, taking on roles in both action and family-oriented films.
After a few more hits and misses, NTR made a significant comeback in 2015 with the action film Temper. In 2016, he appeared alongside Malayalam superstar Mohanlal in Janata Garage, which went on to become the highest-grossing Tollywood film of that year. The film further solidified his position as one of the leading stars in the industry.
International Fame with ‘RRR’ and a Standing Ovation Abroad
Perhaps the most defining moment of Junior NTR’s career came in 2022 when he starred in SS Rajamouli’s global sensation, RRR. NTR played the role of an Indian revolutionary, and his powerful performance garnered praise not just in India but internationally. The film created waves across the world, with RRR even securing an Oscar win for the country. During a special screening of the film in the United States, NTR received a standing ovation, a testament to his global appeal and acting prowess.
Awaiting the Release of ‘Devara: Part 1’
Now, with fans eagerly waiting for his upcoming film Devara: Part 1, Junior NTR’s career seems to be on a continuous upward trajectory. His long-standing collaboration with SS Rajamouli has undoubtedly played a crucial role in his rise to stardom. From the early days of Student No. 1 to the worldwide success of RRR, NTR’s journey reflects both his immense talent and the strategic choices that made him the superstar he is today.
With Devara set to release soon, it’s clear that Junior NTR has overcome the challenges of his earlier career and is poised to reach even greater heights.
