Gadasari Atha Sogasari Kodalu – E 1012 – 18th Oct

Attending the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) felt like stepping into the heart of Indian cinema for actor Nagarjuna. Like a tree deeply rooted in tradition, the festival celebrates the strength and depth of Indian films, and for Nagarjuna, this year’s event was especially meaningful. Hosted in the vibrant city of Panaji, Goa, the festival is a celebration of Indian cinema’s legacy, and Nagarjuna, accompanied by his wife Amala and family, took part in honoring the film industry’s greats.

Nagarjuna shared his joy of being a part of the festival, emphasizing the importance of paying tribute to his legendary father, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), who’s being honored on his centenary. “This is the main reason I’m here,” Nagarjuna said, pointing out that the festival’s focus on celebrating such icons makes it a truly special occasion. While he was asked which of his father’s 251 films he would remake, Nagarjuna humbly responded that choosing one is impossible. “It’s not my greatness, it’s the greatness of Indian cinema,” he added, showcasing his deep respect for the cinematic heritage that transcends individual fame.

The celebrations at IFFI are set to honor the work of four incredible film legends: ANR, Raj Kapoor, Mohammad Rafi, and Tapan Sinha. These icons, whose contributions to Indian cinema remain etched in history, will be remembered through screenings, musical performances, and exhibitions throughout the 8-day festival. Nagarjuna’s words reflect the overarching sentiment of the event – that Indian cinema is not just a form of entertainment but a reflection of the nation’s culture.

As the festival continues to unfold, one can’t help but chuckle at the thought of Nagarjuna attempting to remake any of ANR’s iconic films—after all, how do you remake perfection? Maybe he’ll start by remaking his own “Dad’s Best Hits” playlist!