Gaddar Awards: Revanth Reddy presents best actor award to Allu Arjun for Pushpa-2

Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Saturday presented the Best Actor Award to Allu Arjun for his stellar performance in Pushpa 2 movie at the grand inaugural Gaddar Awards ceremony held at Hitex here.

Instituted by the Telangana government, the Gaddar Awards mark a new chapter in the state's cultural landscape, replacing the former Nandi Awards to officially honour talent in the Telugu film industry.

A star-studded evening

The event witnessed the presence of several top film personalities, with Allu Arjun, Nandamuri Balakrishna, and Chief Minister Revanth Reddy emerging as the special attractions of the evening.

The trio shared warm moments on stage, with Revanth Reddy greeting Balakrishna with a hug and exchanging pleasantries with Allu Arjun, much to the delight of fans and media.

First public appearance since Sandhya theatre incident

This occasion also marked the first public appearance of Allu Arjun and Revanth Reddy together following the Pushpa 2 release incident, where a stampede at Hyderabad’s Sandhya Theatre led to Allu Arjun’s brief detention.

Their presence on the same stage added emotional significance to the evening, symbolizing a reconciliation and renewed camaraderie between the film industry and the government.

Top leaders grace the event

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka and Cinematography Minister also attended the function, which was held with grandeur and festive spirit. The event aimed to honour late revolutionary balladeer Gaddar, whose name the awards carry, and to recognize excellence in Telugu cinema.

Cinema and Revolution: A Cultural Continuum

Addressing a gathering of stars, filmmakers, and dignitaries, CM Revanth Reddy recalled the legacy of honoring cinematic excellence that began in 1964 with the Nandi Awards. “That tradition now finds a powerful new voice in Telangana through the Gaddar Awards,” he said. “Gaddar garu is not just a person—he is a movement, a spark, a source of courage.”

Hyderabad: The Heartbeat of Indian Cinema

Highlighting the growing national dominance of Telugu cinema, the Chief Minister remarked, “When we speak of Indian cinema, it is the Telugu film industry that takes center stage. Hyderabad has become the proud home of this vibrant industry.”

He assured filmmakers and artists that the state government is their partner in progress: “Tell me what you need—this government will stand firmly with you. We may appear strict at times, but only for your long-term growth.”

A 22-Year Commitment and Vision 2047

In a rare political declaration, CM Revanth Reddy pledged, “I will be active in politics for the next 22 years. Whatever my position, I will remain a champion for the film industry.” Drawing a parallel between cinema and IT, he announced that the state’s Vision 2047 document will include a dedicated chapter on film industry development, aiming to contribute to Telangana’s ambition of a $3 trillion economy by 2047.

Gaddar’s Spirit as Telangana’s Cultural Compass

Closing on a unifying note, the CM invoked the revolutionary ethos of Gaddar to inspire future progress: “Let Gaddar anna’s spirit guide our journey of development. We fought inspired by him. Now, let us all work together to make Telangana stronger.”

Gaddar Awards to be annual honour

The Gaddar Awards are expected to be held annually, highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to promote and honour the contributions of the Telugu film industry to the cultural identity of the state.

Fans celebrate Allu Arjun's Award

Fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages for Allu Arjun, celebrating his win and the emotional moment of receiving the award from the Chief Minister. The evening, filled with glitz, performances, and recognition, set a new benchmark for state-sponsored cultural events in Telangana.