The Bollywood star was all smiles at the War 2 event in Hyderabad. Beginning his speech with a warm, “Andhariki Namaskaram… Ella unnaru?” Hrithik added, “For fans, Jr NTR is ‘anna’ (elder brother), but for me, he is ‘Thammudu’ (younger brother). We are like family.”
Speaking about his bond with Jr NTR, he shared, “We started as co-stars and ended up as brothers in real life. Please love NTR forever – he deserves it.”
Hrithik also praised Jr NTR’s work ethic. “Action scenes can be tough, especially when you’re injured. Seeing NTR overlook his injuries and give his all inspired me to push through.”
Highlighting their similarities, Hrithik noted, “I see a lot of myself in Tarak, and I think he sees a little bit of me in him. He is a ‘one-take-final-take’ star. I’ve learnt from him to give 100% to every shot, never 99%, and I’ll carry that lesson into my future films.”
Recalling his connection with the city, Hrithik said, “Many years ago, I shot in Hyderabad for Krrish and was floored by the love and warmth of the people. Coming back here for War 2 feels just as special.”
With a smile, Hrithik wrapped up saying, “I also love NTR’s homemade biryani – he’s one of the best chefs I know!”
Addressing an online discussion on who outshone whom in the recently released dance number ‘Janabe Ali’ from the upcoming film War 2, Jr NTR dismissed the comparisons as unnecessary.
“Such comparisons can mislead fans,” he said at the pre-release event in Hyderabad. “I think two good dancers complemented each other. It wasn’t a face-off as is being projected. I want you all to simply enjoy this foot-tapping chartbuster.”
Recalling his first impression of Hrithik Roshan, NTR said, “When I saw his song ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena’ in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, he reminded me of the iconic dancer Michael Jackson. Over the years, I’ve been amazed by his phenomenal body of work.”
Speaking about their collaboration in War 2, he added, “Every day on set, Hrithik came with incredible energy and a desire to try something new. Those 75 days of working together were fascinating. I learnt so much from him. I still remember the first hug he gave me with open arms when we met on set. That warmth was unmatched, and it made my maiden Hindi film journey so much easier.”
The scion of the Nandamuri family, who recently completed 25 years in Tollywood, looked back at how he started his career. “At the muhurat of my debut film Ninnu Chudalani, I had only my father and mother with me. I had my doubts about my future in films. Then, a fan from Adoni in Rayalaseema visited my home and said, ‘I am your fan.’ I was shocked because no film of mine had even been released. But he stuck by me, and from there, my fan base only grew. Today, I have legion fans. I am always indebted to them and will bow to them for their love and affection, through my ups and downs. Your love proves I am truly blessed.”
NTR also expressed gratitude to “all producers, directors, and technicians who helped me reach this enviable position,” as well as to his family. “I have received great support from my wife and two kids. I am happy with my film journey so far,” he concluded.
Interestingly, NTR pointed out, “This time, Hrithik is coming to Tollywood instead of me going to Hindi cinema.”
A touching bond
Highlighting their similarities, Hrithik noted, “I see a lot of myself in Tarak, and I think he sees a little bit of me in him. He is a ‘one-take-final-take’ star. I’ve learnt from him to give 100% to every shot, never 99%, and I’ll carry that lesson into my future films.”
