Updated on: 21 August, 2024 11:30 PM IST |Sudheesh SK

Here are some of top 5 unknown facts and aspects of Chiranjeevis life and career, making his journey even more fascinating as fans celebrate his birthday

NCC Cadet
Chiranjeevi, originally named Konidela Siva Sankara Vara Prasad, was an NCC cadet who participated in the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi during the early 1970s. Chiranjeevi was born to a police constable father and grew up with a disciplined upbringing, which is reflected in his strong work ethic and commitment to his craft
Chiranjeevi, originally named Konidela Siva Sankara Vara Prasad, was an NCC cadet who participated in the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi during the early 1970s. Chiranjeevi was born to a police constable father and grew up with a disciplined upbringing, which is reflected in his strong work ethic and commitment to his craft

Original Name: Chiranjeevi's real name is Konidela Siva Sankara Vara Prasad. He adopted the screen name "Chiranjeevi" after being inspired by the mythological figure Lord Hanuman, who is known for his eternal life.

Started as a Villain: Chiranjeevi initially took on anti-hero roles in films like I Love You and Idi Katha Kaadu portraying characters that were originally played by Rajinikanth. Both Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth trained at the Madras Film Institute. Rajinikanth graduated in 1973, while Chiranjeevi completed his studies in 1977, making Rajinikanth his senior

First South Indian at the Oscars: Chiranjeevi was the first South Indian actor invited to the Oscars in 1987 by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Chiranjeevi's first film as a lead actor was Punadhirallu released in 1978. However, his first released film was Pranam Khareedu which came out in the same year, leading to some confusion regarding his debut