Chittoor V. Nagaiah's contribution to Telugu movie industry recalled

"He was the epitome of dignity, divinity and magnanimity" Singeetham Sreenivasa Rao, Sowcar Janaki and singer S.P. Balasubramanyam honoured

CHENNAI: Fans of Telugu actor Chittoor V.Nagayya fondly recalled the performances of the veteran at a function here on Saturday to mark his 103rd birth anniversary.

Clippings from Nagayya's Telugu hits such as స్వర్గ సీమ (Swarga Seema) and యోగి వేమన (Yogi Vemana) were screened as part of the function, organised by Padmashree Chittoor V.Nagayya Memorial Academy.

Speakers hailed the legend's contributions to the Telugu film industry as a singer, producer and director.

Speaking at the function, actor Anjali Devi said he was the first south Indian artist to have received the Padmashree award.

Ms. Devi, the first recipient of the award instituted by the academy, said she hoped to give shape to the actor's aspirations.

Minister of State for Mines T. Subbirami Reddy honoured senior director Singeetham Sreenivasa Rao, actor Sowcar Janaki and playback singer S.P. Balasubramanyam on the occasion.

Donations

Mr. Reddy donated a sum of Rs.6 lakh for installing a statue of the actor. He also gave Rs.2 lakh towards the education of deserving candidates.

Film critic V.A.K. Ranga Rao said the actor's songs and films set a new trend in the industry.

Actress Sowcar Janaki described Nagayya as a personification of dignity, divinity and magnanimity.

"Fortunate"

Mr. Balasubramanyam recalled his association with the veteran and said he was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with such legends.

Five students were presented with scholarships and books on the occasion. Mr. Rao and vice president of the academy T.G. Kamala Devi spoke.

Courtesy: The Hindu