As the clock struck midnight on May 20, 2025, social media erupted with birthday wishes for Jr NTR, one of Indian cinema’s most dynamic and beloved stars. Fondly called the ‘Man of Masses’, Jr NTR celebrates his 42nd birthday amid much excitement for his upcoming films — War 2 and NTRNeel. As fans trend hashtags and pour their hearts out online, the actor’s friends and industry colleagues joined in to extend their warmest wishes.
Heartfelt Wishes from Tollywood’s Finest
Among the first to wish him was Icon Star Allu Arjun, who posted a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), calling NTR his “Bava.” He wrote, “Happy Birthday Bava @tarak9999! Wishing you all the success, Joy & Happiness.”
Happy Birthday Bava @tarak9999 !
Wishing you all the success , Joy & Happiness 🖤— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) May 20, 2025
His half-brother and actor Nandamuri Kalyan Ram shared a touching note: “Happy Birthday nanna @tarak9999,” while actor Vijay Deverakonda posted an Instagram story saying, “Tarakk annaa Happy happy birthday to you.. Biggest hugs and love.”
Happy Birthday nanna @tarak9999
— Kalyanram Nandamuri (@NANDAMURIKALYAN) May 20, 2025
Veteran actor Brahmaji also added his voice to the chorus of love, tweeting, “#HappyBirthdayNTR Happy birthday Dear @tarak9999. Wishing you many more happy years n blessings and prosperity.”
#HappyBirthdayNTR 🥳❤️
Happy birthday Dear @tarak9999 . Wishing you many more happy years n blessings and prosperity 💕— Brahmaji (@actorbrahmaji) May 20, 2025
Amid the birthday buzz, fans were also treated to the first look of his highly anticipated Hindi debut in War 2, a project that marks a significant leap into pan-Indian territory. Meanwhile, NTRNeel, his big collaboration with director Prashanth Neel, is set for a grand release on June 25, 2026.
The Journey of a Star: From Legacy to Legend
Born into the illustrious Nandamuri family, Jr NTR — son of actor-politician Harikrishna and grandson of the legendary NT Rama Rao — was always destined for cinema. He made his debut as a lead actor in Ninnu Choodalani (2001), which failed to impress. But he rebounded with Student No: 1, directed by SS Rajamouli, which became a sleeper hit and won hearts with his raw, sincere portrayal of a young student.
Within months, Jr NTR delivered Aadi, a massive box office success that firmly established him as a commercial star. But it was Simhadri (2003), another collaboration with Rajamouli, that turned him into a household name. The film was an industry hit and marked the beginning of his mass appeal — a tag that would follow him throughout his career.
Lows, Lulls, and an Unforgettable Comeback
Like every star, Jr NTR faced his share of setbacks. Films like Andhrawala, Samba, and Narasimhudu failed to perform, leading many to question his staying power. For nearly three years, he struggled to deliver a hit, with critics and industry watchers quick to write him off.
But NTR wasn’t done. With Rakhi (2006), he made a modest comeback. Then came Yamadonga (2007) — another Rajamouli magic touch — that resurrected his career. The socio-fantasy film was a blockbuster and reaffirmed his status as a bankable star. His performance won acclaim for balancing emotion, flair, and mass appeal.
The Evolution of a Versatile Performer
Post-Yamadonga, Jr NTR’s filmography reflected an actor constantly evolving. In Adhurs (2010), he took on dual roles and stunned audiences with his comic timing and charisma. In the same year, Brindavanam showcased his softer, romantic side, proving he was not just an action hero.
While he hit a rough patch again with films like Shakthi, Oosaravelli, and Dhammu, NTR bounced back with Baadshah (2013), a stylish entertainer that widened his fan base. What followed was a streak of hits that reaffirmed his versatility — Nannaku Prematho revealed his emotional depth, Janatha Garage highlighted his screen presence, and Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava underlined his maturity as a performer.
RRR: The Game-Changer
The year 2022 marked a watershed moment in Jr NTR’s career. His portrayal of freedom fighter Komaram Bheem in SS Rajamouli’s magnum opus RRR, alongside Ram Charan, catapulted him to global fame. His nuanced performance — powerful yet rooted in emotion — won acclaim from audiences and critics worldwide. The film’s success in countries like Japan, China, and the US turned him into a global phenomenon.
Devara and Beyond: A Star Who Keeps Growing
In 2024, Devara: Part 1 reinforced his star power, performing impressively in international markets and earning praise for his intense, action-packed performance. With War 2 marking his Bollywood debut and NTRNeel promising a mega cinematic spectacle, the actor shows no signs of slowing down.
His commitment to the craft, ability to experiment, and grounded personality have earned him the love of fans across generations. Whether he’s playing a mythical character, a gritty action hero, or a soft-spoken lover, Jr NTR brings unmatched energy and conviction to every role.
Celebrating the Man of Masses
On his 42nd birthday, Jr NTR stands as a shining example of perseverance, reinvention, and mass appeal. From enduring flops to delivering record-breaking hits, from being doubted to becoming a pan-Indian superstar — his journey is nothing short of inspiring.
By Sulagna Kar