It’s a rare sight to see a star truly celebrated by his own family and his legions of fans alike, but that’s the story unfolding for Telugu cinema legend Chiranjeevi. He recently marked an incredible 47 years in the film world. The milestone brought out touching tributes and a deep sense of gratitude from the beloved actor and those closest to him.
Perhaps the most heartwarming message came from his brother, actor and politician Pawan Kalyan. He took to social media, sharing a blast from the past. Pawan Kalyan vividly remembered his older brother’s first movie, “Praanam Khareedhu.” He was just a school kid back then, living in Nellore. The brothers went to Kanakamahal Theater to watch it. That day, Pawan Kalyan said, filled him with an indescribable joy. He shared a personal tweet, recalling the moment with fondness.
I still vividly remember when ‘Peddha Annaya’ acted as the hero in the film ‘Praanam Khareedhu’. We were in Nellore at that time, and I was still in school. We went to Kanakamahal Theater, and the elation I felt that day is beyond words.
In his 47 year film journey, it is truly… https://t.co/tClLlUMMaA pic.twitter.com/TSUTMJZwVo
— Pawan Kalyan (@PawanKalyan) September 22, 2025
Pawan Kalyan wasn’t just reminiscing; he showered his “Peddha Annaya” (elder brother) with praise. He called Chiranjeevi’s 47-year journey inspiring. He marvelled at how Chiranjeevi has excelled in every area he’s tried. He wished for a long life, health, and continued success for his brother. He also made it clear that “retirement” simply isn’t a word in Chiranjeevi’s vocabulary.
Chiranjeevi himself expressed deep appreciation for the journey. He posted on social media, looking back at his beginnings. He mentioned that his birth name was Konidela Sivashankara Varaprasad. However, the film “Praanam Khareedhu” gave him the name “Chiranjeevi.” That movie, he said, truly brought him to life as an actor. He feels immense gratitude for the Telugu audience. They have loved him like a son, a family member, and a Megastar. He feels truly blessed to have completed 155 films, all thanks to their unwavering affection.
22 సెప్టెంబర్ 1978
‘కొణిదెల శివ శంకర వరప్రసాద్’ అనబడే నేను “ప్రాణం ఖరీదు” చిత్రం ద్వారా ‘చిరంజీవిగా’ మీకు పరిచయం అయ్యి నేటితో 47 ఏళ్లు దిగ్విజయంగా పూర్తయ్యాయి. ఈ చిత్రం ద్వారా నాకు నటుడిగా ప్రాణం పోసి.., మీ అన్నయ్యగా, కొడుకుగా, మీ కుటుంబ సభ్యుడిగా , ఒక మెగాస్టార్ గా.. అనుక్షణం… pic.twitter.com/1VSVTu9Kkz
— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) September 22, 2025
Chiranjeevi even replied to his brother’s touching words, thanking “Kalyan Babu” for his heartfelt message. He said his brother’s words took him back to those early days. He reiterated that he has always cherished the love from his family, friends, and fans since “Praanam Khareedhu.”
Dear Kalyan Babu,
Your words touched me deeply and took me back to those early days.
From ‘𝓹𝓻𝓪𝓷𝓪𝓶 𝓴𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓮𝓮𝓭𝓾’ to this day, I have always cherished the love and encouragement of our family, friends, fans, and audience. Thank you very much for everything. May the… https://t.co/VQ7Ut69kNr
— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) September 22, 2025
He dedicated all his awards and achievements to his loyal audience. “These are all yours,” he told his fans, “you gave them to me.” He hopes this special bond of love will continue forever. To mark the occasion, he also shared a poster from his very first film, which came out in 1978.
These two brothers, though celebrating a past achievement, are still very much looking to the future. Pawan Kalyan is set to appear next in a film called “They Call Him OG.” Chiranjeevi has a busy schedule ahead too. He has several projects lined up, including “Viswambhara,” “Mega 157,” and “Mega 158.” It looks like their journey in cinema is far from over.
