Chiranjeevi Shares His Inspiring Journey at APTA Catalyst Global Business Conference 2025

Tollywood megastar Chiranjeevi attended the APTA Catalyst Global Business Conference 2025 as the chief guest. The event, organized by the American Progressive Telugu Association (APTA) in Hyderabad, drew prominent figures and entrepreneurs from India and abroad, particularly from the United States. During his address, Chiranjeevi shared inspiring insights about his personal and professional journey, offering valuable lessons to young entrepreneurs.

“Under the auspices of APTA, this Catalyst Global Business Conference has been organized with a noble objective. It’s commendable to see eminent personalities from across the globe coming together to encourage young Telugu entrepreneurs. When we support each other, the results are not just beneficial to individuals but can positively impact our region, state, country, and even the nations we live in,” Chiranjeevi said, praising APTA’s efforts.

The megastar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and the audience, stating, “Being amidst such an electrifying and energetic gathering makes me feel not just as a guest of APTA, but as part of this family. At some events, one feels compelled to attend, but this is different. Here, I feel like I’ve come to celebrate a festival with my own people. The admiration you have for me, for Telugu culture, and for this nation is clearly visible in each one of you. I humbly bow my head in gratitude for this extraordinary welcome.”

A Journey of Struggles and Determination

Recounting his early life, Chiranjeevi shared how he rose from humble beginnings in a middle-class family. “When I was in the seventh grade, I always felt I wanted to achieve something. Initially, I thought sports could be my path, but multiple injuries during games made me realize it wasn’t meant for me. Eventually, I discovered NCC, where I developed discipline and leadership skills. I went on to become a naval cadet and even participated in the Republic Day parade on Rajpath, in front of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the President of India. That experience made me feel a sense of accomplishment.”

Despite his achievements in NCC, Chiranjeevi felt unfulfilled. “I could have joined the army and become an officer, but something told me I was destined for something different. During college, I participated in a play and won the Best Actor award. That moment planted the seed of interest in acting. Soon, I noticed how people, especially girls, started treating me like a hero, which boosted my confidence.”

After completing his degree, Chiranjeevi sought his father’s advice about pursuing a career in films. Despite skepticism from his father, who had played minor roles in movies, he remained determined. “I had this inexplicable confidence that I would succeed. Unlike the idea of becoming a bank officer or a police officer, the thought of becoming an actor gave me unmatched excitement. I joined the Film Institute, and before I could complete my training, filmmakers began offering me roles. Unlike many aspiring actors, I didn’t have to go door-to-door with photos or attend numerous auditions. My only goal was to reach the top.”

Overcoming Setbacks with Positivity

Chiranjeevi emphasized how he dealt with early setbacks in his career. He recalled an instance when he was replaced in a film after initially being selected. “They said my previous film with NTR garu had failed, so they didn’t want to take a risk with me. That hurt, but I took it positively. Eventually, I reached a stage where that same director made more films with me than he did with NTR garu. This taught me that one should always turn adversity into opportunity.”

He urged the audience to stay focused on their goals despite challenges. “If you let negativity dominate, it will consume you. Be like an eagle that soars high above the clouds. In my career, I faced criticism and rejection, but I never gave up. Instead, I converted every setback into a stepping stone.”

Success is Built on Attitude, Not Talent Alone

Chiranjeevi credited his success not just to talent but to his behavior and attitude. “In the early days of my career, directors and producers cared more about how we behaved and how we could support their projects. Talent alone wasn’t enough. Maintaining good relations and having a positive attitude opened more doors for me than anything else. Even when people hurt me or rejected me, I never showed ego. Instead, I remained humble and focused on my goal.”

He added that his humility played a crucial role in his journey to becoming the number one star in the Telugu film industry. “It’s not that I lacked courage. I knew when to step back and when to move forward. That’s what helped me ride the wave to the top.”

A Message to Young Entrepreneurs

Chiranjeevi concluded his speech by offering advice to the young entrepreneurs present. “Fix your goal and move forward with a positive mindset. Opportunities will come your way if you remain focused and determined. Don’t chase money initially. Focus on learning and growing. Money will follow in due course.”

Reflecting on his early years in Madras (now Chennai), Chiranjeevi recounted how he was often discouraged by fellow aspiring actors. “They would say, ‘We have been struggling here for years without success, how can you expect to make it?’ But I didn’t let that deter me. I stayed away from negativity and focused on nurturing the positive aspects of my life.”

With this inspirational message, Chiranjeevi concluded his speech, leaving the audience motivated. He praised APTA for organizing the event and encouraging young entrepreneurs to dream big and work hard towards their goals.

“I am indebted to my audience, who recognized me before the industry did. That’s why I’ll always remain grateful to them,” he said, ending his address on an emotional note.