Amaravati : On the occasion of the former Andhra CM and TDP founder N.T. Rama Rao's Centenary celebrations, his statue was unveiled in Atlanta, US. The event, which was marked by the inauguration by General Secretary Nara Lokesh, represents a tribute to N.T. Rama Rao's enduring legacy.
"The legendary NTR Garu stood for more than just cinema and politics--he was a movement, a symbol of Telugu pride, and a fearless voice of our people. He championed our culture, our language, and our people, redefining Telugu identity both on and off the screen.
From unforgettable characters to visionary leadership, NTR Garu taught us to dream big and devote ourselves to serving the people. He remains a timeless icon, and a symbol of Telugu pride worldwide. I'm honoured to unveil his statue in Atlanta today. Proud to see him celebrated on foreign soil, reminding us of both, the power of our dreams and roots anchored in Telugu Atmagouravam," Nara Lokesh posted on X.
Venigandla Ramu, MLA from Gudivada, said "There is no other leader who has gained as much fame and reputation in the Telugu community as NTR. The name of NTR will remain forever in the pages of history as long as the Telugu community exists."
He expressed his delight at the unveiling of NTR's statue and praised Nara Lokesh as the 'beacon of hope' for the future of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP)."Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Minister Lokesh are tirelessly working for the state, and NRIs should support their efforts. Minister Lokesh is meeting dozens of investors in a single day for investments. Lokesh is a beacon of hope for the future of the Telugu Desam Party, and he will lead the party effectively. The unveiling of NTR's statue today made us forget the struggles of the past five years," he said.
Gannavaram MLA Yarlagadda Venkata Rao on the NTR Centenary Celebrations, said "NTR, a great personality who established a regional party at the age of 60, brought it to power within nine months. The revolutionary reforms he introduced serve as a model for today's leaders. No government has dared to provide rice at two rupees a kilogram, but our leader NTR did during his period. NRIs play a crucial role in the economies of India and Andhra Pradesh."
Gannavaram MLA further said "NTR was a great personality who brought the Equal Rights Act for women in property. Unfortunately, former Chief Minister Jagan does not respect that law and has wronged his mother and sister."
He urged for investments in Amaravati, the capital of Andhra Pradesh. He called for support for Chandrababu and Lokesh, who are working towards the goal of providing 2 million jobs in five years.
Nagari MLA Gali Prakash emphasized that the enthusiasm displayed by NRIs in the area creates an atmosphere reminiscent of Andhra Pradesh. "Lokesh played a key role behind the grand victory with 164 seats. He undertook foot marches to save the state's future and the TDP. As the Minister for Panchayati Raj, he has constructed 25,000 kilometres of rural roads and provided LED lights in ways no other minister has. The party's future will be bright under Lokesh's leadership. There is so much to say about NTR, yet it feels insufficient.
After the establishment of the TDP, Telugu people gained recognition on a global scale. He called upon all NRIs to be partners in the state's development in the coming days" he said.
Udayagiri MLA Kakarla Suresh also mentioned that Nara Lokesh is the only leader among Indian politicians who studied at a prestigious institution like Stanford and entered politics. He acknowledged Lokesh's role in his election as an MLA.
USA NRI TDP President Komati Jayaram stated that they celebrated NTR's centenary events grandly.,"As long as the Telugu community exists, NTR's name will remain immortal. We NRIs will always support the government. He urged recognition for the NRIs who selflessly worked for the party, believing that they would lead the state on the path of progress." He affirmed that they will continue to support the party's success in the future.