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Powerstar of Tollywood
Pawan, who has acted in 30 films, has enthralled millions of Telugu cinema fans in a career spanning almost three decades. After debuting with Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi, Pawan starred in notable films in the late ‘90s, like Gokulamlo Seeta and Suswagatham. His 1998 romantic drama, Tholi Prema, was Pawan’s breakthrough film. He followed it up with blockbuster films like Thammudu and Badri and started creating his own fan base — slowly coming out of his brother and megastar Chiranjeevi’s shadow. Pawan Kalyan’s 2001 film Khushi was a rage, and an all-time industry hit in Telugu cinema. The youthful drama, directed by SJ Suryah, catapulted Pawan to superstardom. The sign was clear: a superstar was in the making. He became a much-sought-after Telugu actor over the turn of the century.
One of the highest-paid actors
Apart from starring in it, Pawan Kalyan made his directorial debut with Johnny (2003). Although the film was panned by the audiences, the actor received bouquets for the film’s technical finesse. Much like his fellow contemporaries, Pawan gradually transformed into an action hero with films like Gudumba Shankar, Balu, Bangaram, Annavaram, Jalsa and Puli. Despite facing a few setbacks and flops, Pawan made a roaring comeback with 2012 action entertainer Gabbar Singh, and 2013 family drama Attarintiki Daredi. Both the films were blockbusters and have scripted history with stunning collections. Pawan reinforced his position as Tollywood’s top box office draw, and a superstar, known for having fans across all age groups. He is among the highest-paid actors in the Indian film industry and commands a fan following second to none.
Deputy Chief Minister of AP
After a spectacular stint in cinema, Pawan took the political plunge and floated his own political outfit JanaSena Party in 2014. But he did not contest in the Andhra Pradesh state elections. Instead, the actor-politician publicly endorsed the Telugu Desam Party which came into power. Pawan’s party single-handedly contested the 2019 elections but was unsuccessful. And in 2024, he played a key role in forging an alliance between three political parties JSP, TDP and BJP. The alliance swept to power in a landslide victory and Pawan’s party created history by winning each of the seats it contested — 21 MLA seats and 2 MP seats in the state.
Soon after the results, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described, “Ye Pawan Nahi Aandhi Hai” (He is not a breeze; he is a storm) — the slogan became very popular. And as part of the coalition government, Pawan Kalyan rose to deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh state. But given his current packed political and administrative assignments, the actor has not taken up any new films.