Celebrating 50 glorious years on Telugu silver screen, veteran actor Dr Naresh VK gets nostalgic

Speaking of his golden jubilee journey, Dr Naresh VK admitted that veteran filmmakers of his time laid a strong foundation for his success.

Published Jan 20, 2024 | 5:05 PMUpdated Jan 20, 2024 | 5:05 PM

VK Naresh completed 50 years of acting career

As veteran actor Dr Naresh VK celebrates a momentous milestone of 50 years on the silver screen, he took a nostalgic trip down memory lane recounting his childhood spent around film sets, make-up rooms, and the vibrant atmosphere of film studios, how he forged a deep connection with the world of cinema from an early age.

Expressing gratitude to renowned directors and mentors who laid the pillars of his film career, the actor thanked everyone who played a role in shaping his cinematic journey.

As he commemorates this significant milestone, Dr Naresh VK looks back with appreciation for the incredible experiences and collaborations that have marked his illustrious 50-year career in the film industry.

50 years on silver screen

Naresh completes 50 years in Cinema

Naresh completes 50 years in Cinema. (Facebook)

“I feel fortunate to have completed 50 years of my film journey, seizing every opportunity that came my way. This accomplishment is an example of the enduring love of the audience. I am committed to serving the film industry for the rest of my life,” he remarked.

Recalling the memories surrounding the golden jubilee journey, Naresh admitted that veteran filmmakers of his time laid a strong foundation for his success.

About his early career, Naresh said, “I made my debut at the age of nine with the film Pandanti Kapuram (1972). Despite the common notion that child artists may not succeed as onscreen protagonists as they grow in their careers. I never dwelled on that fear.”

The actor shared, “Unexpectedly, my career took off with impactful movies like Ammagari Prema Sankellu (1982) directed by Vijaya Nirmala and Jandhyala’s directorial Nalugu Sthambalata (1982). These films, alongside the guidance and collaboration with industry stalwarts like Jandhyala garu, my mother Vijaya Nirmala, K Vishwanath, Bapu garu, and others, laid the foundation for my success in the first innings of my career.”

Also Read: Telugu actor VK Naresh conferred with ‘AMB Lt Colonel Sir’ honour in the Philippines

Never compromised with his dreams

About his career graph, Naresh said, “I entered the industry with the sole aim of becoming a good actor. Throughout my career, I explored a new dimension in every movie, this resulted in success. However, my first innings concluded with disappointment.”

“I am an adventurous person both on and off the screen, I had a brief stint in mainstream politics and later engaged myself in social service. This path led to nearly a decade of distance from the film industry,” he added.

After nearly a decade-long separation from the film industry, his second innings was filled with diverse characters.

“During this phase, I drew inspiration from the legendary actor late SV Ranga Rao. The crucial lessons of patience and consistent training, imparted by my mother, proved to be effective in navigating the challenges that I had faced in this career.”

Also Read: ‘Martin Luther King’ is not just a political satire: VK Naresh

Revival of Nandi Awards

Actor VK Naresh

Actor VK Naresh. (Facebook)

The actor, who once ventured into politics with a commitment to service people, expressed concern about the evolving political landscape in the Telugu states.

“The prestigious Nandi Awards, which were once highly regarded within the industry, lost prominence in recent times. This generation of actors has missed out on the importance of these awards. I have a desire to revive the Nandi Awards. The prestigious ceremony will restore the industry’s honour,” he felt.

On the collaboration between Mahesh Babu and director Rajamouli, the actor noted, “Mahesh Babu’s massive fan base, spans various industries. Rajamouli’s iconic status as a filmmaker with global recognition has the potential to elevate the Telugu film industry to unprecedented heights.”

Naresh identifies classics such as Nalugu Sthambalata, Srivariki Premalekha (1984), Police Bharya (1990), Chitram! Bhalare Vichitram (1992), and Jambalakidi Pamba (1992) and are among his all-time favourites.

Additionally, in the actor’s second innings, films like Guntur Talkies (2016), Samajavaragamana (2023), Malli Pelli (2023), and Intinti Ramayanam (2023) hold a special place in his journey.

Related: ‘Malli Pelli’ is an honest story about Pavitra Lokesh and my personal life, says actor VK Naresh

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