If you've watched Pushpa 2, you might recall the scene where Rashmika's character schools someone about the importance of family name.
That scene feels oddly relevant today, especially when you look at the full-page congratulatory ads in all major newspapers celebrating Nandamuri Balakrishna’s Padma Award.
Balakrishna is known for his unique demeanor—when he decides something, that's final.
Despite NTR congratulating him with affection by calling him “Bala Babai,” neither NTR nor Kalyan Ram found a place in the Nandamuri family's acknowledgment list.
The full-page ad, celebrating Balakrishna's achievement, featured names of several Nandamuri and Nara family members, including children and grandchildren. However, the names of NTR and Kalyan Ram were conspicuously absent.
While one might argue that the names of other family members' children were also not mentioned, the exclusion of NTR and Kalyan Ram, both prominent figures in their own right, stands out.
NTR and Kalyan Ram are not just regular family members—they are celebrities with their own standing and influence. Their names should have ideally been included. But Balakrishna is known for his stubbornness—once he distances himself from someone, it’s final.
This isn’t the first time such a divide has been visible. During Lokesh’s swearing-in ceremony, Kalyan Ram was present but Balakrishna did not acknowledge him.
Even in the Unstoppable series, Balakrishna has invited many guests, but NTR and Kalyan Ram have never been called or even mentioned.
Recently, NTR took a step towards reconciliation by congratulating Balakrishna, addressing him affectionately as “Bala Babai.” Fans on both sides were thrilled by this gesture. However, after seeing today’s ad, many fans might feel disappointed again.
