Nagababu, also known as Konidela Nagendra Babu, is a prominent figure in the Telugu film industry and Indian politics. Born on October 29, 1961, in Mogalthur, Andhra Pradesh, India, he is a multifaceted personality renowned as an actor, producer, and politician. As the brother of megastar Chiranjeevi and power star Pawan Kalyan, Nagababu has carved his own niche in Tollywood with his versatile roles, production ventures, and political involvement.
Early Life and Family Background
Nagababu was born into the Konidela family, a household that would later become synonymous with Telugu cinema. His father, Konidela Venkat Rao, was a police constable, and his mother, Anjana Devi, was a homemaker. Growing up in a modest family, Nagababu was the third of five siblings, with elder brother Chiranjeevi and younger brother Pawan Kalyan both achieving superstardom in Tollywood. His sisters, Vijaya Durga and Madhavi, have maintained a low profile compared to their brothers.
From a young age, Nagababu displayed an interest in the arts, influenced by the vibrant culture of Andhra Pradesh. After completing his schooling in Mogalthur, he pursued higher education, earning a degree that laid the foundation for his analytical and creative pursuits. However, his true calling lay in the world of entertainment, where he would follow in the footsteps of his elder brother Chiranjeevi.
Entry into Telugu Cinema
Nagababu’s entry into the Telugu film industry was a natural progression, given his family’s growing involvement in cinema. While Chiranjeevi had already established himself as a leading actor by the late 1970s, Nagababu debuted in the early 1980s. Unlike his brothers, who primarily took on lead roles, Nagababu gravitated toward supporting roles, character acting, and occasionally villainous characters, showcasing his versatility.
His early films included supporting roles that allowed him to hone his craft. Over time, he appeared in more than 100 Telugu films, earning praise for his ability to adapt to diverse roles. Some of his notable acting credits include 143, Anji, Shock, Sri Ramadasu, Chandamama, and Orange. While he occasionally played lead roles, Nagababu found his strength in supporting characters, often portraying figures of authority, family members, or antagonists with depth and nuance.
Transition to Film Production
In addition to acting, Nagababu ventured into film production, establishing himself as a successful producer under the banner of Anjana Productions. Named after his mother, the production house was a collaborative effort with his brothers, Chiranjeevi and Pawan Kalyan. Anjana Productions has been responsible for producing several hit films, contributing significantly to the family’s legacy in Tollywood.
One of Nagababu’s most acclaimed achievements as a producer came with the film Rudraveena (1988), starring Chiranjeevi. The film, directed by K. Balachander, addressed social issues and won critical acclaim, earning a National Film Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration. Nagababu’s role as a producer also earned him two Nandi Awards, recognizing his contributions to Telugu cinema. Other notable productions under Anjana Productions include Trinetrudu and Gudumba Shankar, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.
Political Career and Involvement with Jana Sena Party
Nagababu’s career took a significant turn when he entered politics, aligning himself with his younger brother Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena Party (JSP). Founded in 2014, JSP aimed to address the concerns of the common people in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on issues like corruption, unemployment, and social justice. Nagababu joined the party in 2019 and quickly rose to prominence, becoming the General Secretary.
In the 2019 general elections, Nagababu contested as a Member of Parliament (MP) candidate from the Narasapuram Lok Sabha constituency in Andhra Pradesh. Despite his efforts, he did not win the seat, but his campaign highlighted his commitment to public service and political activism. His political journey reflects his desire to contribute to society beyond the entertainment industry, leveraging his public persona to advocate for change.
Television Career and Jabardasth
Beyond films and politics, Nagababu has made a significant impact on Telugu television. He gained widespread recognition as a judge on the popular comedy show Jabardasth, which airs on ETV. His wit, charisma, and ability to connect with contestants and audiences made him a beloved figure on the show. Jabardasth provided Nagababu with a platform to showcase his lighter side, contrasting with the serious roles he often portrayed in films and politics.
His television stint further expanded his fan base, appealing to a younger audience and reinforcing his versatility as an entertainer. Nagababu’s presence on Jabardasth also highlighted his adaptability, as he successfully transitioned from cinema to the small screen.
Personal Life and Family
Nagababu is married to Padmaja Konidela, and the couple has two children: Varun Tej and Niharika Konidela. Both of his children have followed in the family’s cinematic footsteps. Varun Tej, born on January 19, 1990, is a well-known actor in Telugu cinema, recognized for films like Kanche, Fidaa, and Gaddalakonda Ganesh. Niharika, born on December 18, 1993, is an actress and producer who debuted with the film Oka Manasu (2016) and has since ventured into web series and production.
Nagababu’s family is deeply entrenched in the Telugu entertainment industry, with his nephews Ram Charan, Allu Arjun, and Sai Dharam Tej also being prominent actors. This interconnected family network has made the Konidela-Allu clan one of the most influential in Tollywood.
Controversies and Public Perception
Nagababu’s outspoken nature has occasionally landed him in controversies, particularly in the political sphere. In 2025, his statements about the Reddy community in Andhra Pradesh sparked outrage, leading to backlash on social media. Critics accused him of making caste-based remarks, pointing out the irony given that his family includes members married to individuals from the Reddy community, such as Upasana Kamineni (Ram Charan’s wife) and Sneha Reddy (Allu Arjun’s wife). Nagababu later clarified his stance, but the incident underscored the challenges of navigating politics and public perception.
Despite such controversies, Nagababu remains a respected figure in Tollywood and among his supporters. His contributions to cinema, television, and politics have earned him a multifaceted reputation, blending creativity with a commitment to social causes.
Legacy and Impact
Nagababu’s legacy is a testament to his versatility and dedication. As an actor, he has entertained audiences with his diverse roles; as a producer, he has contributed to meaningful cinema; and as a politician, he has sought to address societal issues. His journey reflects the evolution of a man who has embraced multiple roles while staying true to his roots.
His influence extends beyond his immediate achievements, inspiring the next generation of actors and producers, including his children and nephews. Nagababu’s ability to balance family, career, and public service makes him a unique figure in the Telugu entertainment landscape.
Conclusion
Nagababu’s life and career are a remarkable blend of talent, resilience, and adaptability. From his humble beginnings in Mogalthur to his rise as a key player in Telugu cinema and politics, he has left an indelible mark on both industries. With over four decades of contributions, Nagababu continues to be a significant presence, whether on the big screen, television, or the political stage. His story is one of perseverance, family legacy, and a commitment to making a difference, ensuring his place in the annals of Tollywood history.
Top FAQs About Nagababu
- Who is Nagababu?
Nagababu, or Konidela Nagendra Babu, is an Indian actor, producer, and politician known for his work in Telugu cinema. He is the brother of Chiranjeevi and Pawan Kalyan and a key member of the Jana Sena Party. - What is Nagababu’s full name?
His full name is Konidela Nagendra Babu. - How old is Nagababu?
As of March 17, 2025, Nagababu is 63 years old, having been born on October 29, 1961. - What are some of Nagababu’s famous movies?
Some of his notable films include 143, Anji, Shock, Sri Ramadasu, Chandamama, and Orange. - Is Nagababu involved in politics?
Yes, Nagababu is the General Secretary of the Jana Sena Party and contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Narasapuram. - Who are Nagababu’s children?
Nagababu has two children: Varun Tej, an actor, and Niharika Konidela, an actress and producer. - What is Anjana Productions?
Anjana Productions is a film production company founded by Nagababu, Chiranjeevi, and Pawan Kalyan, named after their mother, Anjana Devi. - What awards has Nagababu won?
He has won a National Film Award for Rudraveena as a producer and two Nandi Awards for his contributions to Telugu cinema. - Why was Nagababu in a controversy in 2025?
In 2025, Nagababu faced backlash for comments perceived as offensive to the Reddy community, sparking outrage on social media. - What is Nagababu’s role in Jabardasth?
Nagababu is a judge on the Telugu comedy show Jabardasth, where he is known for his humor and engaging presence.
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