Chiranjeevi says this after he was named as Padma Vibhushan awardee

In a video message, Chiranjeevi said, "I am really overwhelmed, humbled, and grateful for this honour. It is only the unconditional and invaluable love of the people, audiences, my friends, my blood brothers and sisters. I owe this life and this moment to you. I have always tried to express my gratitude in the ways that I can. Though I know nothing can ever be enough.

"On-screen, in the last 45 years of my career, I have tried to entertain you with the best of my abilities. Off screen, I tried to help the needy by taking part in relevant social and humanitarian causes."

Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honouring him, the actor said, "I have done so little. Yet, you have given me such recognition and honour."

Chiranjeevi, who is one of the most popular actors in the history of Indian cinema, has worked in over 150 films.

Though he has primarily worked in Telugu films, the 68-year-old also features in projects made in other languages like Hindi, Tamil and Kannada.

Some of his notable works include Vijetha, Indra, Bholaa Shankar.

In 2008, Chiranjeevi entered into politics and founded his own party but later merged it with Congress.

Apart from Chiranjeevi, the Padma Vibhushan has been awarded to Vyjayantimala Bali, M Venkaiah Naidu, Bindeshwar Pathak (posthumous), and Padma Subrahmanyam.