"Transform Insults into Tools for Success": Chiranjeevi's Empowering Message at APTA's Global Business Conference, Katalyst
Megastar Chiranjeevi graced the American Progressive Telugu Association's (APTA) Global Business Conference Katalyst, held in Hyderabad on January 5, 2025, as the Chief Guest. His speech, packed with wisdom, inspired countless budding entrepreneurs and professionals in the audience, as he shared lessons from his illustrious career and personal experiences.
Chiranjeevi began by expressing his deep connection with the Telugu community, stating that he felt like he was among family. He conveyed his gratitude for the warmth and love he received, particularly from the event organizers, who had made the ambitious move to host such a grand gathering in Hyderabad.
"Bringing together an event of this scale, especially from the US to Hyderabad, takes immense courage. I commend the APTA team for their efforts in supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and helping them expand their networks," he said.
Chiranjeevi candidly admitted that when he first received the invitation, he wasn’t sure what he could share about entrepreneurship. However, upon reflection, he realized that his own journey—from humble beginnings to superstardom—had always been marked by leadership qualities and an entrepreneurial spirit. "I believe that sharing my story of both success and struggle will resonate with you and hopefully inspire your business and entrepreneurial endeavors," he remarked.
The actor traced his roots back to a modest middle-class family and recalled his early fascination with sports—particularly ball badminton, volleyball, and cricket. However, due to injuries, he had to abandon his athletic ambitions. Chiranjeevi then turned to NCC (National Cadet Corps) during his B.Com. studies, seeing it as a way to cultivate discipline. His journey in NCC saw him rise through the ranks to Petty Officer and Senior Cadet Captain, even participating in the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi, where he marched in front of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and President Zail Singh.
However, this milestone led him to wonder what would come next in his life. His entry into the film industry was far from easy. As a college student, he acted in the play Raajeenama, which won him the "Best Actor" award, marking the beginning of his film career. Chiranjeevi described the early days at the film institute in Chennai, where he faced stiff competition and unwelcoming peers. "Their harsh words weighed heavily on me," he confessed. "But I found solace in prayer, particularly to my favorite deity, Anjaneya Swamy, and that inner strength helped me focus and overcome the negativity around me."
Chiranjeevi reflected on the many insults and rejections he encountered throughout his career, but instead of letting them break him, he used them as fuel to propel himself to greater heights. "I turned every insult into a weapon that helped me rise. I focused on my work, and as a result, opportunities began to open up," he shared. He emphasized that, for any entrepreneur, the initial focus should be on building a strong foundation and reputation, rather than chasing immediate financial gains. "The same people who doubted or mistreated me came back offering me opportunities once they recognized my worth," he added.
The actor also discussed the importance of relationships in business, citing his strong bonds with producers and how they helped him fill the gap left after NT Ramarao's exit from the industry. "Integrity was something the film industry recognized in me, even before they acknowledged my talent," Chiranjeevi noted.
Chiranjeevi, having researched entrepreneurship prior to the event, shared that passion was a fundamental element in any successful venture. He recounted how his own passion for acting, discovered during his time in NCC, guided his career choices. "After NCC, I realized acting was my true passion," he said. "I took calculated risks, balancing my film studies with an evening course at the ICWI Institute. Once I gained confidence, I quit ICWI and set clear, achievable goals."
He credited his versatility and success in a variety of film genres—whether action films like Khaidi or family dramas like Shubhalekha—to his relentless pursuit of skill development, from acting and dance to action sequences. Collaborations with top filmmakers like K. Raghavendra Rao and B. Gopal further honed his craft and broadened his appeal.
On the topic of business growth, Chiranjeevi stressed the importance of continuous learning, market research, and networking. "My fans have always been my greatest strength," he said. "Their support has enabled me to channel my energy into social causes, such as blood donation, which has been a practice for the last 25 years. APTA also organized blood donation camps in my name, and I'm proud of the positive impact we've had."
In conclusion, Chiranjeevi expressed his confidence that his insights would inspire those present to take charge of their careers and pursue their dreams. "If even one of you finds success and fulfillment after this interaction, that will be my greatest reward," he said with a smile.
His powerful words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving everyone motivated to turn challenges into stepping stones on their paths to success.
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