New Delhi: In his last Mann Ki Baat address of 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to four cinematic legends—Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), and Tapan Sinha—on the occasion of their birth centenaries.

Addressing the nation in his monthly radio broadcast, the prime minister highlighted the immense contribution these iconic personalities made to Indian cinema and their impact on global recognition of the country.

"In 2024, we are celebrating the birth centenary of several film personalities who were instrumental in bringing global recognition to the country," Modi said. He added, "The lives of these personalities are a source of inspiration for our film industry."

Raj Kapoor - A global ambassador of India’s soft power

Prime Minister Modi spoke fondly of Raj Kapoor, often referred to as the showman of Indian cinema. He praised the actor-director’s global influence, saying, "Through his films, Raj Kapoor ji made the world aware of India's soft power."

Mohammed Rafi - The voice that still resonates

The prime minister also spoke warmly about the legendary playback singer, Mohammed Rafi. "Mohd Rafi's magical voice would touch the heart of every listener," Modi said, acknowledging the singer’s versatility across genres.

"He had an incredible voice. Be it devotional songs, romantic songs or sad songs, he made every emotion come alive with his voice," Modi added.

The fact that Rafi’s songs are still loved by today’s youth, Modi pointed out, "is a testament to his greatness as an artist." He concluded by referring to this as the "true meaning of timeless art."

Akkineni Nageswara Rao - A pillar of Telugu cinema

The prime minister also paid tribute to Akkineni Nageswara Rao, or ANR, a stalwart of Telugu cinema. Modi praised ANR for taking Telugu cinema to "newer heights" and highlighted how his films beautifully depicted "Indian traditions and values."

Tapan Sinha - A visionary director in Bengali cinema

PM Modi also acknowledged Tapan Sinha, one of Bengali cinema’s most prominent directors in the 1970s and 1980s.

"Tapan Sinha ji's films gave a new vision to society. His films conveyed the message of social consciousness and national unity," Modi noted.

The birth centenaries of these cinema icons were celebrated with great reverence in 2024. Raj Kapoor’s birth anniversary was on December 14, followed by Mohammed Rafi’s on December 24. ANR’s 100th birth anniversary was observed on September 20, and Tapan Sinha would have turned 100 on October 2.

PTI