ANR's death: Telugu cinema has become blind

Soon as the news of Akkineni Nageshwar Rao's death spread, the entire film fraternity plunged into a state of mourning. People from all walks of life in large numbers are thronging Annapoorna Studios in Yusufguda to pay their last tributes.

My father was recovering well from the surgery. He was absolutely fine Tuesday evening and spent time with all our family members. He breathed his last while sleeping.

Mohan Babu: I have always maintained that veteran actors ANR and NTR are two eyes of Tollywood. Both have left us and I think now, the industry has turned blind.

My relationship with Akkineni is ever lasting - we were like father-son, father-grandson. I have learnt so many things from him on how to be a producer. I have worked in many films under his banner as comedian and actor.

Rajendra Prasad: ANR and NTR were like the favourites kids of Telugu industry. ANR is a inspiration to all actors and gave lessons to the future generations.

Dasari Narayana Rao: In the Telugu film industry, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and NTR are like pole stars. NTR died on January 18 and today ANR left us. Though years are different, two died in a gap of four days. They are two eyes of the film industry and now film industry has lost its both eyes. He worked for me in 26 films and probably he is the first actor who has done most films under my direction. ANR's family is not like a film family, but like my own family.

K Rosaiah: He expressed shock over the death of ANR. The former chief minister said: "It is a great loss to the film industry. An era of Telugu film industry has ended with his death.

Rajnath Singh: Akkineni Nageswara Rao was one of Indian cinema's stalwarts, who will be remembered for his rich contribution. Saddened by his demise.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu visited Annapurna studios to pay his last respects. Akkineni's death is a great loss to Telugu people and Telugu film industry. His services to film industry will remain. While Nandamuri Harikrishna said: With ANR's death, the entire film industry has plunged into deep grief.

Jayprakash Narayan: Akkineni Nageswara Rao has been an inspiration for three generations. He is a not only a great actor, more than that he is a good human being. He stood up for the values -discipline and thus will remain a hero in the hearts of many people. He wil remain in our hearts forever.

Jana Reddy: He has earned fans in the entire country with his acting. His life itself is an inspiration and he became as Andari Vadu. My deep condolence to his family members.

Babu Mohan: ANR and NTR are two favorite children of the Telugu film industry. Both will meet in heaven now. Remembering his relationship with ANR, Babu Mohan said that ANR had called him with his name just once or twice as he would always refer to him as handsome guy. I have lost a father figure today. I hope his family members get the strength to digest the news.