NTR’s off-Screen talent: Cooking Biryani and Punugulu!

NTR is a powerhouse on screen. But off screen, he has another passion that not many know about: cooking.

In a recent interview with Esquire India, NTR opened up about his love for cooking, saying he approaches it with the same discipline and flair he brings to his films.

Biryani and Punugulu

“When I’m not working and in a good mood, I love preparing Punugulu and biryani, especially Telangana-style biryani,” he revealed. He emphasized that his cooking is strictly for his inner circle—his wife Pranathi and a few close friends.

As he gears up for “War 2,” this insight into NTR’s personal life only adds more layers to the persona of one of India’s most admired stars.

Here are the key highlights from the interview:

Rejecting Legacy Expectations: NTR emphasized that he does not want to be defined by his family’s cinematic legacy, despite being the grandson of legendary actor and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao. He expressed uncertainty about the future of his family’s film legacy, stating, “I don’t know what’s going to happen with the legacy of films in the family. Or who’s going to hold the baton after me. I haven’t planned for all that.”

Focus on Authenticity: The actor stressed his desire to be remembered as an honest person with emotions rather than just a cinematic icon. He said, “I feel there are two images that we portray: the reel and the real. I prefer the real. The more real you are, the more you connect with the masses. I want to be remembered for telling stories that resonate. But most of all, I want to be remembered as an honest man with emotions.”

Parenting Philosophy: NTR discussed his approach to fatherhood, emphasizing that he wants to be a bridge rather than a barrier for his sons, Abhay and Bhargav. He expressed his reluctance to push them into acting, saying, “I do not want to be one of those fathers who says: ‘Tumko bhi actor banna hai (You need to become an actor too)’. I want to be a bridge rather than a barrier, someone who gives them exposure to the world and other cultures.”

Philosophy of Spontaneity: Drawing inspiration from a quote in the animated film Kung Fu Panda, Jr. NTR revealed his approach to life and career, stating, “I am someone who doesn’t plan things out.” He referenced Master Oogway’s quote about living in the present, which he says keeps him grounded as he navigates his career.

War 2 and Career Choices: NTR discussed his Bollywood debut in War 2, citing the script’s potential and his excitement to work with co-star Hrithik Roshan as key reasons for signing the project. He also highlighted the unification of Indian cinema, noting, “There is no Bollywood, Tollywood or Mollywood anymore as everyone from all corners teamed up and formed one big united Indian film industry.”

Views on Nepotism: Addressing nepotism, NTR made it clear he does not rely on his family’s legacy to define his success, focusing instead on his individual growth and authenticity as an actor. He aims to carve his own path while respecting his roots